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By Dr. Sabrina Brandon Ricks | Sponsored by SBR Leadership
When is the last time you spoke in front of a group of three or more people? Did you have to give a report at work? Did you give a speech at a wedding? Did you prepare a presentation for a graduation or otherwise? According to the National Library of Medicine, approximately 77% of Americans have a fear of public speaking and would rather be doing anything else other than having to share in front of a group. As we enter a new year, consider improving the areas that have been a challenge for you. You can overcome. Start with improving your public speaking skills. Here’s how:
Get Prepared
Whenever you are tasked with a speaking assignment, get ready! One of the primary reasons individuals fear public speaking is because they feel unprepared. If you are attending a wedding, you know there is a chance there will be an opportunity for the audience to speak. Consider in advance what you might say to the happy couple. These days you can even search online for proper things to say at a wedding, or whichever type of event you are attending, to try to get ideas. The research will pay off and you will appear prepared and confident.
Storytelling
It is not hard to keep up with a list of facts or blurbs you have read so you can simply tell a story about an experience you have had. Judge Judy often says, “you don’t have to have a good memory to tell the truth.” A recollection will flow smoothly when it is simply a story of something that happened to you, what was the lesson, and how does it relate to the topic you are presenting. Additionally, you will connect with many people in the audience who may have experienced something similar or at least thought about it, so now they are engaged with your story.
Speaking Notes
Although you do not want to read word-for-word what you plan to present, it can be helpful to have index cards with some speaking notes. Indeed, you may get a little stage fright and forget a few things when standing in front of the group. That is what the notes are for. They serve as a crutch to support you and help you find your next point without losing the attention and interest of the audience.
Practice
No one will ever be perfect in presenting or doing anything, however practice will get you as close to your desired state of acceptance in public speaking as possible. You can use a mirror, record yourself on a cell phone, or practice in front of family, friends, or pets. Allow those who see you practice to provide constructive feedback that can help you improve. It also helps you release some of the jitters of presenting and step-by-step helps you to overcome your fear.
The more you do anything, the better you become. Public speaking is no different. So, find some places you can practice throughout 2025. You can start small, such as a family dinner and being out with a group of friends. Then consider asking for a speaking assignment at work. Volunteer to give a toast at a wedding. Put yourself out there and you may be pleasantly surprised to see what skills you already possess.
Contact SBR Workplace Leadership Services for additional training topics related to public speaking or if you need a consultant to execute leadership training or teambuilding activities for your workplace. In the new year, force yourself out of your comfort zone and create possibilities for growth and expansion in your life. Good luck and Happy New Year!
