By tailoring a speech to a specific audience, a speaker will most likely increase which of the following?

When a speaker tailors their speech to a specific audience, they are actively considering the interests, values, and needs of that audience. This customization enhances the relevance and relatability of the content, which in turn significantly boosts the credibility of the message. When audience members perceive that a speaker understands and respects their perspectives, they are more likely to view the speaker as knowledgeable and trustworthy. This connection fosters a stronger belief in the validity of the information presented, creating a sense of authority regarding the topic. Tailoring the speech demonstrates the speaker's commitment to engaging with the audience, thereby reinforcing their credibility.

While increasing knowledge about the message and encouraging participation are important outcomes of an effective speech, they do not directly correlate with the specific impact of tailoring content to the audience in the same profound way that credibility does.