Do you clam up when it comes to public speaking? Public speaking is a major fear for many people that suffer from extreme anxiety, stuttering, sweating and shaking hands when speaking in front of a group.
It is reported that public speaking is actually the largest phobia and affects as many as 73% of people.
Public speaking is not easy, but the importance of public speaking cannot be overstated and it is a skill that is essential if you want to advance your career.
In addition to career development, you will find that becoming a good public speaker can improve your life. Life skills like public speaking will always come in useful and could also give your self-confidence a huge boost.
So, why is public speaking so important?
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It Is a Communication Skill
The main reason that people emphasize the importance of public speaking is that it is a communication skill. Communication is critical to success in business as you must work with others to achieve goals.
Being a good public speaker allows you to communicate effectively in a group setting whether this is a team meeting, a presentation to the board or giving a sales pitch. Additional Resource: How to Look Confident
You will not get far in your career if you can only communicate one-on-one, so you need to develop your abilities if you want to excel in the business world.
It Demonstrates Leadership Potential
Following this, good public speakers also have leadership potential. This is essential if you want to climb the corporate ladder.
You need to be able to communicate and inspire confidence to a group in order to be a good leader, so the ability to stand up and communicate will demonstrate that you have potential.
It Develops Confidence
Another important aspect of public speaking is that it develops confidence.
Many people suffer from anxiety when public speaking, but by stepping out of their comfort zone and developing their communication skills, it can greatly improve their self-confidence.
Confidence is key in the business world, so becoming a good public speaker can improve your confidence and showcase to others that you believe in yourself.
How to Improve Public Speaking Skills
The importance of public speaking is clear, but how can you improve? There are a few public speaking tips that will hopefully help you develop your abilities.
The first tip is to find inspiration. Find someone that you admire that is a good public speaker and observe what they do that is so effective. You might also be able to find advice from them online.
The second tip is to know your material. You will have more confidence and be a better public speaker when you know the material like the back of your hand and don’t have to read from notes (a major mistake).
Similarly, you should practice as much as possible. Ask friends and family if you can practice on them so that you can get used to presenting in front of people that you feel comfortable with.
Perhaps the best advice to improve your public speaking skills is to sign up for media training. Media coaches can change your mindset and develop the key skills needed to excel with public speaking—click here for more information.
Find Career & Life Success by Becoming a Good Public Speaker
Public speaking is a skill that can set you apart, advance your career and improve your confidence. Many people fear public speaking, but like any skill, it can be developed and hopefully this post will inspire you to take action.
Check out our other content on career development to learn more!