ALT-2 How to Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking
Public speaking. It's frightening for some. Just the thought of going up to the podium to speak can make wrecks out of people.
Is it really so difficult?
I believe that Public speaking is a skill. Some people are natural at it and take to it like fish to water. Some people are more like birds in water. I do feel that everyone can transform themselves from birds into fish. It is not easy but it can be done. All it takes is focus and application.
First up let's explore the motivations.
Why is it important to learn Public speaking?
Public speaking is a very important skill to move ahead. If you notice most CEO's or senior management people, they are very good in communicating. If you also notice 'Happy' people you will notice that they are excellent in communication (including public speaking). Overall if you are good at public speaking then you are said to posses' good communication skills. Good communication skills get you ahead in life. Good communication skills land you the best jobs, the important contract or the date that you are looking for.
From my personal experience good public speaking skills gives you a boost in confidence. You become super confident and assured in your abilities to get the message across and in being understood.
So now that we have the motivation aspect covered we can move on to the 'How' of public speaking.
How do you become a good public speaker or how do you overcome the fear of public speaking.
Let me share with you my secret. My secret for overcoming your fear, hold your breath, is 'Do more public speaking'
Ok, you will answer, that's easy for me to say since I have been doing public speaking. But how can you do public speaking and overcome your fear, since for some of you it's like the chicken and egg thing. To speak in public you need to overcome your fear and to overcome your fear you need to speak in public.
Rest assured there is a simple solution Toastmasters.
Join toastmasters. It's a fantastic organisation. It's an organisation where you can learn communication skills and leadership skills through practice. Through speaking at meetings on various topics and developing your confidence. It's a very supportive group where you are constantly encouraged and provided tips on how to improve. Everyone learns through speaking or evaluating or playing different roles. Its ones of the best ways to overcome your fear.
For more information: http://www.toastmasters.org/.
Find a club near you and overcome your fear.
