by Linda Burleson

Created on: July 19, 2008   Last Updated: January 12, 2012

Some people blanch totally white when faced with the prospect of speaking in public. On the other hand some people seem to be born to it. It occurs to me that it might be wise to begin with young children, encouraging them to get in front of an audience. There are so many occasions in adulthood that the ability to communicate publicly can be a boon to career advancement, civic affairs, and even in interpersonal relationships.

I am a good example of the probability of this, having grown up in a church that encouraged even very young children to participate in programs and plays in church. In my elementary school in second grade through sixth we went to the library once each week, read the book we checked out, then gave a book report in front of the class. I went to a junior high and a high school that offered speech class as an elective, and it was one of the most fun classes available. We were encouraged to enter UIL speech competitions - monologues, one act plays, debate, etc. Sometimes these were dreadful experiences, yet as I look at many of the adults with whom I shared childhood and youth, they now handle public speaking opportunities proficiently. Some are teachers, some are lawyers, some are doctors, some are corporate executives, and some are housewives, but most present themselves well in any public situation.

One can never stop learning to improve public speaking skills. There are publications there that help with pointers, anecdotes and quotes. There are also organizations that provide public speaking opportunities. My personal recommendation is to join a local Toastmasters International group. There is at least one chapter in most towns. The executive director at my workplace is an avid supporter of Toastmasters, so much so that we have a chapter in our building that meets before work once a week. I resisted vehemently for a couple of years. Walking by the room where they were meeting and hearing all those bells go ding when someone said "er" or "uh" sent me packing. A co-worker finally convinced me to just visit a meeting. It turned out to be a really positive experience. They provide books with speech ideas and tips for doing it well when you join. Everyone is experiencing the same feelings, therefore they provide positive feedback, instruction and encouragement (PIE) to each other.

The second time I attended, I realized the benefits, so I joined. The next week I gave my first speech - The Icebreaker- a speech in which you introduce yourself,

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>