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Speak with Confidence
By Susan Kim | April 30, 2007
Would you like to stand up in a meeting and make your points effectively?
How about getting rid of those butterflies in your stomach before each presentation?
Or perhaps you want to just be able to walk up to a total stranger at a networking event and make conversation.
In business, the ability to speak and get your message across is a marketing asset that is free but worth millions in value. Being able to express yourself clearly and effectively not only gets you “heard,” but it also helps to create credibility and respect.
Who is not impressed with someone who is direct and articulate?
Developing your speaking ability is one of the lowest cost investments you can make with a high rate of return! I am a long time member of Toastmasters, a non-profit organization that provides a safe, supportive and educational environment where people learn both communication and leadership skills. They have weekly meetings where you get an opportunity to practice your speaking and leadership. For me, my involvement with Toastmasters has been invaluable - not only for the personal growth and development, but also for the friendships, the learning and support from other members. Every time I hear a speech, I learn something new - they’re like 3 mini seminars within a one hour meeting!
If you want to get rid of those butterflies and be more effective as a speaker, I would recommend Toastmasters or any other speech improvement program. Here are a couple tips to get you started for presentations:
1. Prepare - First get your message really clear by writing it down. Writing things down also helps to prevent “ramblings” that can be distracting to your presentation.
2. Highlight Main Points - Pick 2-3 main points that you want to highlight and emphasize. This helps the listener pick up on specifics.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice, OUTLOUD - Each time you read outloud what you have to say, you will probably modify your tone, pace, perhaps even your words. Each of these tweaks will enhance your delivery AND your message. Also, practicing helps to clear those butterflies from your stomach and enables you to speak with confidence.
In business, communication is the key to reaching out and building credibility and respect.
Doesn’t it make sense to invest in your communication skills?
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