How To Become an Effective Speaker
What is Public Speaking?
Public speaking is the process of communicating in front of a live audience, which takes on many forms, such as speaking in front of others during presentations, hosting meetings, conducting interviews, and providing demonstrations. In public speaking, you may find yourself having to lecture investors, entertain classmates, give a speech, train fellow co-workers, speak to customers, and even speak in front of family members at events. When it comes to public speaking, you can consider it an art form. It takes skill, practice, confidence, and courage to speak confidently in front of others, which isn’t always easy. During high school, and especially college, most students will be expected to give a presentation of their work in front of their peers and professors. This may carry into your professional field when entering the workforce, as you may be tasked with holding a training demonstration in front of new employees or speaking to board members and management at meetings. In some speeches and live presentations, the use of electronic slideshows or physical posters is sometimes needed that act as a visual aid adds to the overall experience, which is just as important. Mastering the art of public speaking has many benefits, and once proficient with speech, the message you want to convey will come across more smoothly and efficiently.
Why is it important?
For us Latinas, it is extremely important that we learn how to master the art of public speaking. Being a woman and of a minority background, we have extra roadblocks to overcome in social settings, corporate environments, work, and at school. Whether an early career professional or already established, many Latinas face the issue of imposter syndrome or feeling inadequate in front of others. Imposter syndrome can affect anyone regardless of status, but especially minority women who have to prove themselves even more so in front of others while in public and social settings due to discrimination and prejudice. For just about anyone, the pressure to publicly speak or present clearly lends many challenges, such as fear, self-doubt, and anxiety. Learning to combat your nerves and being able to overcome such challenges is crucial in navigating emotions, communication, and confidence. Speaking efficiently and articulately in front of others is essential for success in life. It is important to learn to curve anxiety and self-doubt in order to gain self-confidence and self-love, which helps maintain a positive mindset and optimistic approach. Having polished speaking skills is vital to conveying your knowledge and influence to others and also helps with establishing relationships with individuals in various industries.
The ability to come across as a strong and effective speaker will enhance your leadership abilities and will no doubt have a positive impact on your relationships, career, education, social life, and overall success. Speaking confidently also has many benefits that can lead to impressive and successful interviews with potential employers while opening a wide range of opportunities such as: becoming a keynote speaker, commencement speech presenter, and having the opportunity to win debates and competitions and influence intended target audiences. Whether speaking to a small or large audience, the following tips can enhance your awareness and help prepare you for public speaking.
Basic Tips
Watch and learn from other great speakers who have had success and great influence.
Watching podcasts and videos will also give you a great visual aspect of what effective speaking is and can provide virtual mentorship.
Preparing, organizing, and creating key-talking points is also a useful tool before presenting a speech or presentation.
Having notes readily available and practicing your speech in front of trusted family or friends is helpful.
Be and come prepared 100% of the time by knowing your material.
Study and know your audience.
Be pleasant and exude confidence, which helps the audience feel comfortable and connected.
Enroll in communication and public speaking courses.
References:
What Is Public Speaking? & Why Is It Important? (+ Tips) (tutsplus.com)
10 Ways to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills | BestColleges
