Why You SHOULD be Afraid of
Public Speaking

More people are terrified of making a speech than dying. That means most people at a funeral "Would rather be in the coffin than saying the eulogy" according to comedian Jerry Seinfeld.

What causes that fear of public speaking?

Sandra Bobkin, a Toronto based executive coach says, “Emotional intelligence occurs when you understand what thoughts and feelings trigger (your fear of speaking.)”

Lack of training is one of those emotional triggers. Have you taken a speech course?

If you’ve never been trained to research, write and deliver a speech you SHOULD feel scared:

Imagine sky diving out of an airplane. Jumping with a parachute is scary but safe. Jumping without a parachute - without preparation - is irresponsible and terrifying. Just like giving a presentation without proper training.

Some people think public speaking is a “born talent.” But, it’s really a matter of technique. You learn how to give a great speech. The more you learn, the more confident you become.

How important is speaking to your career?  

Think of a famous leader. They’re probably a great speaker. Great speakers are admired. They’re seen as "natural" leaders because they inspire people when they speak.

For example, I knew a Director who technically brilliant with software. However, he couldn't speak in front of a group. His career came to a screeching halt. He hadn’t mastered the communication skills necessary to advance to the next level.

That's why presentation skills are included in any good Management Training program. An investment in public speaking training pays off in more effective leadership. If you haven’t taken a course in BUSINESS presentations, you're not prepared for your next meeting.

You can learn to be a fine speaker even if you have an accent or speech impediment. Lynda Christie is a Florida based speech pathologist. She works with such clients. She says, “Practice is key. Once a client has mastered their first steps, the fear of public speaking is relinquished.”

Here are the first steps if you’re a businessperson:

Take a course in public speaking. Hire a coach to give you feedback and polish your skills. Then practice at a safe venue like Toastmasters until you feel confident.

Invest in yourself. Learn how to research, write and deliver a great presentation. Be seen as a great speaker. Be recognized as a leader.