Unlock the Secrets of Confident Public Speaking
As a seasoned expert in media and speaking engagements, Christine Cruzvergara, Chief Education Strategy Officer at Handshake, knows a thing or two about captivating audiences. With over a decade of experience on national and international stages, she’s coached numerous individuals on honing their public speaking skills. Cruzvergara shares her top tips for becoming a more effective and confident communicator.
Understand Your Audience
To sharpen your public speaking skills, it’s essential to observe how senior leaders communicate within your organization. Identify the traits and characteristics of your leadership and how they convey information. Are they concise and to-the-point, or do they thrive on context? Do they rely on data-driven insights or prefer a more anecdotal approach? By understanding their communication style, you can tailor your message to resonate with them.
Craft Your Message
At Handshake, Cruzvergara notes that their leadership prefers a “punchline first, context later” approach. This means delivering the key takeaway upfront, followed by supporting context. This technique helps ensure that your message is heard and understood by decision-makers. When preparing a presentation, ask your manager for guidance to ensure you’re delivering information in the most effective way possible.
Practice Builds Confidence
Cruzvergara emphasizes that practice is key to building confidence in public speaking. While individuals may possess the necessary knowledge and data, it’s the delivery that often needs refinement. Work with your manager to create opportunities for growth, starting with smaller meetings and gradually scaling up. Request direct feedback on your performance to identify areas for improvement.
Overcome Nervous Habits
Rehearse making clear statements and asking concise questions to overcome nervous habits like filler words or hedging. Remember, confidence and humility can coexist. By focusing on delivery and practice, you can develop the skills necessary to become a successful and confident communicator.
Take the First Step
Don’t let public speaking anxiety hold you back. By understanding your audience, crafting your message, and practicing your delivery, you can unlock the secrets of confident public speaking. Take the first step towards becoming a more effective communicator today.
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