Why might a speaker choose to sound robotic when engaging?

A speaker might sound robotic when engaging primarily due to a lack of preparation or rapport. When a speaker is unprepared, they may rely heavily on scripts or predefined phrases, which can come across as mechanical or lacking in genuine engagement. This robotic tone can stem from anxiety about delivering content accurately or the speaker's discomfort with the material, leading to a delivery that lacks warmth and connection with the audience.

Moreover, if the speaker has not established rapport with the audience, they may instinctively adopt a more detached, formulaic style of communication. Genuine engagement often requires a certain level of interaction and responsiveness to the audience, which can be diminished if the speaker feels disconnected or unsure. In summary, a robotic delivery is often a symptom of deeper issues related to preparation and audience connection.