An essential career skill: Public Speaking

Public speaking is important for success. It is one of those essential people skills that can help you express yourself clearly, help you influence people and help you to advance your career.

Whether we are aware of it or not, public speaking skills are not just about giving presentations.  The very act of speaking with others telling stories, negotiating with your boss or teacher, giving or receiving an interview are all forms public speaking.

For most, being able to talk in front of large groups of people and express their opinion on important topics is challenging.

Once you have mastered public speaking, however, it is a great self confidence booster. You can get up in front of a group and express yourself without fear or anxiety. Most rewardingly you will be able to impress and inspire others.

TIPS ON BEING A GOOD PUBLIC SPEAKER

There are a number of ways to become a good speaker. One way is to watch people were good presenters. Observe the presentation style of preachers, teachers and even politicians. Some other important steps in becoming a good public speaker is to know your material. Always plan what you have to say. Do your research and even prepare questions that may be asked of you particular topic.

As a public speaker, you are expected to be an expert in your field so make sure you do your homework

To be a good public speaker you need to be able to read your audience, assess their response and act accordingly. You should know the age group, interests, education and professional level of your audience beforehand. Think about your approach. Will you be talking to it if i individuals or couples?  Is what you’re going to be talking about of relevance to them, if it is what the best approach?

You also need to familiar rise yourself with the room and venue that you will be speaking in.  Check the acoustics, will you need a mike or can your voice project so everyone can hear. If you are using equipment always always test them before you start.

Be confident. Do some prepping beforehand.  Practice your speech in front of a mirror, in front of your dog or anyone who will listen. Practice over and over again until you feel confident that you know your material. When presenting, find topics that interest you. Present with certainty, use your own words, own your words and do it with passion. Find angle that interest you and your passion will show through.  

Always be comfortable with who you are.  One way is to dress the part. You know the feeling when you put on your favorite new outfit, your shoes are shined, your hair is well groomed and you feel great. Make sure you recreate this well groomed feeling before your presentation. It is an absolutely confidence booster.

Unless someone else has introduced you, remember to make sure you introduce yourself.

If you are using slide to keep them simple and easy to read slides are a great way of helping guide you through your presentation

Relax be yourself and don’t be afraid to interject humor were appropriate. However, never insult or belittle your audience.

Be aware of your body language. Sometimes when we are nervous we fidget.  A polished presenter will have good posture and good habits.

 Remember to stay on schedule if you talk too much people get bored if you talk to you little people are not getting much out of your presentation set a time limit and stick to it

Everything plays its part in making you a great presenter. What you have to say is important, but the way your preparation, how you present yourself , your passion about your topic and audience all play their part.  As for careers, public speaking can enhance your prospects. In business you often have to present to clients, managers and customers alike. If you are confident, articulate, able to give directions and inspire others, your career is off to a flying start