The Power of Public Speaking

Most people, at some point in their life, will need to stand up and speak in front of a group of people. However, for many individuals, standing up in public and doing a speech is one of their greatest fears. If you get nervous when speaking in front of large groups, know that you are not alone. Psychologists attribute our phobia of public speaking to our fear of being ostracised from a group, which thousands of years ago meant imminent death by a large predator. However, with preparation, practice, and experience, people can overcome their fear, build confidence, and deliver memorable speeches.

The Importance of Public Speaking

In our modern world, the ability to present to an audience is a crucial skill. As a graduate or job-seeker, it is definitely a great skill to possess because no matter what career path you choose, you are very likely to encounter public speaking in your career at some point. For starters, it can help you to impress employers and enhance your job prospects and employability. On securing a job, there will be many circumstances where good public speaking skills can help you to advance your career. For example, you might have to talk about your organisation at a conference, speak to a group of customers in an online meeting, make a speech after accepting an award, deliver a class to new recruits or train a virtual team.

Becoming a Confident Speaker

Nervousness is normal but the great news is that there are many ways to overcome and tackle anxiety when speaking to a crowd. Thorough preparation and practice will then help you to further conquer your fear of public speaking. To get practice, seek opportunities to speak in front of others. You could practice speaking in front of three or four people then add to the number as you become more confident. You could also put yourself in situations that require public speaking, such as volunteering to speak at team meetings or training a group of people in a topic you feel confident in.

Benefits of Public Speaking

Being a good public speaker can not only enhance your reputation, secure you a great promotion and open up numerous opportunities; it can also boost your self-confidence. Although many people get incredibly nervous the first time they have to do a speech in front of an audience, with practice the nerves subside and they usually begin to enjoy the whole process. People often report an increase in their confidence as well as a marked sense of achievement, the more they practice speaking in public. Other benefits of public speaking include developing your communication skills and overall fluency.

 

Jocelyn Brown is a professional freelance writer and mother. She loves the freedom that comes with freelancing and the versatility it allows her in covering many different topics and themes. When not at work she enjoys running, hikes in the country and making the most of the family time.

*The information and views set out in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and standpoints of Mladiinfo International. Responsibility for the information and views expressed in the text/pictures/video therein lies entirely with the authors.

Leave a Reply