Many people looked at the title of this post and said to themselves, “Exactly my thoughts! Why speak? Like most folks, I have a fear of public speaking. That’s the reason:
- “I’ve never done public speaking.
“I don’t deliver presentations now.
“I have no intention of standing in front of a group and talking in the future.
“Why am I even reading this article?”
That’s a fair question. Let me answer it.
1. Even if you never speak in front of audiences, the ability to do so will greatly improve your one-on-one and small group communication.
I know you engage in this kind of activity all the time. One way of thinking about this is that many conversations are mini-presentations. We are delivering or seeking information.
Most of the components, parts and elements of a formal presentation apply when speaking to individuals or within small groups. There is the content and delivery.
- Content is what you want to convey to others.
Delivery is presenting that information to them.
The delivery component has two parts; verbal and nonverbal. Most in-person talks involve both. They should both be in sync. If not, nonverbal trumps verbal. (Read the body language of the people you are communicating with!)
2. For most of us, speaking in front of an audience takes us out of our comfort zone. When we get out of our comfort zone, we make it larger.
Speaking to groups can be a tremendous boost to our self-confidence! The self-talk is often, “If I can do this, I can do anything!”
3. Being an effective speaker will help your business and career.
We perceive really good speakers as experts! Perception is reality, and people like to work with experts – correct?
People with a fear of public speaking often don’t take, and certainly are unlikely to make speaking opportunities. Consequently, they lose out because the research shows:
- Speaking Opportunities are Business Opportunities.
Speaking Opportunities are Career Opportunities.
Speaking Opportunities are Leadership Opportunities.
The fact is that you could be the leading authority in your chosen field. However, if you can’t present your knowledge to an audience, even a very small one, in a manner that educates, entertains and explains, your career may never reach its potential.
The ability to communicate is one of the most important skills an individual can possess. Doing it well is a goal worth perusing.
No one was born a public speaker! Just like all the skills you use daily, it can be learned!
If you haven’t already – start the journey!
Leave a Reply