Why Public Speaking Skills Are Essential for Introverts

Greetings fellow Introverts!

Today, I want to talk to you about a topic that is near and dear to my heart: public speaking in the workplace.

Now, we all know that public speaking can be terrifying for some people, especially for those who identify as introverts. However, I am here to tell you that if you are an introverted leader in the corporate environment, honing your public speaking skills is absolutely essential.

Let me give you a hypothetical example. Imagine that you are an introverted leader in a large corporation. Your team has just developed a groundbreaking new product, and you have been tasked with presenting it to the company's board of directors. You know that this is your chance to showcase your team's hard work and innovation, but you are also terrified of public speaking. You worry that you will stumble over your words or forget key points.

I remember how I used to feel when I was briefing large groups of police officers when I was in charge of the policing of large football matches at Derby County Football Club or public disorder events. I recall how my heart used to start pounding, my mouth went dry and I even had nervous tremors flying through my body. I used to get through my briefing but, once out in the corridor, I often took a deep breath and a sigh of relief.

Now, imagine that you have spent the past several months working with a public speaking coach. You have learned how to project confidence and authority through your body language and tone of voice. You have practiced your presentation until you know it inside and out. When the day of the presentation arrives, you step up to the podium with poise and grace. You deliver your presentation flawlessly, impressing the board of directors and securing funding for your team's project.

This is just one example of how public speaking skills can benefit introverted leaders in the corporate environment.

There are many other ways in which we can use public speaking to enhance our leadership skills. Here are a few more key reasons why you should consider investing in your public speaking skills:

1. It helps you communicate your vision: As a leader, your job is to inspire and motivate your team. Public speaking skills can help you articulate your vision and goals clearly and effectively, which in turn can help your team work towards a shared goal.
2. It enhances your credibility: When you speak confidently and articulately in front of others, it can enhance your credibility as a leader. This can help you gain the trust and respect of your colleagues and employees.
3. It helps you stand out: In a crowded corporate environment, being a strong public speaker can help you stand out from the crowd. It can help you make a memorable impression on potential clients, investors, or even your own colleagues.

I spent so many years, as an introverted leader, simply accepting that I could not speak. I used to avoid every opportunity to speak up at meetings or deliver presentations. Now, I realise that everyone can master this skill. Just in the last 2 years, I have delivered over 200 presentations, keynote addresses, lectures, radio shows and podcasts. I am now regularly called upon to speak live on BBC or tv to comment on topical issues. I have even featured in a tv show recently. This is what can happen when you open yourself up to mastering public speaking skills.

So, what can you do to improve your public speaking skills? Here are a few tips:

1. Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with public speaking. Look for opportunities to speak in front of others, whether it's in a small meeting or a larger presentation.
2. Focus on your breathing: When we're nervous, we tend to take shallow breaths, which can exacerbate our anxiety. Practice deep breathing exercises to help calm your nerves.
3. Use visual aids: If you're nervous about forgetting key points, consider using visual aids like slides or handouts to help keep you on track.
4. Fina a reputable spaking: A good public speaking coach can help you overcome your fears and build the technical skills and confidence to become an outstanding speaker.

In conclusion, as an introverted leader in the corporate environment, public speaking skills are essential. By investing in your skills, you can communicate your vision effectively, enhance your credibility, and stand out from the crowd. So go forth, my fellow introverts, and conquer the podium!

And remember, if all else fails, just imagine the audience in their underwear. Hey, it works for some people!

Until next time,

Kul

Kul Mahay is an emotional intelligence and leadership specialist. He is a sought-after public speaker and now helps others to master the art through his programme Create and Speak which is in collaboration with the Institute of Leadership and Management making it one of the highest accredited speaking programmes in the UK.