Making a wedding toast. Presenting at work. Persuading a jury you really are an upstanding citizen (despite those drunken videos online).
Public speaking is a fabulous life skill, and it needn’t be a daunting one to acquire. Whether we speak to agitate, educate or entertain, being able to speak in front of others helps across social and professional settings.
What’s a Savvy Girl to do? I can’t recommend Toastmasters enough (& to be clear, I don’t get a cent for endorsement.) I thought TM was a stuffy organization, full of men in tweed suits and women in twinsets and pearls, sipping sherry. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Check one out (www.toastmasters.org) – in fact, check out a few different clubs, as each group has a different vibe.
A brief rundown: each meeting has a few prepared speeches (usually 5-7 mins) and then anyone can get up for Table Topics™, impromptu talks of 1-3 mins. You might get anything from a favorite childhood memory, to a quote, to a color to prompt you. It’s relaxed and fun; you’ll feel supported, your nerves diminishing and your speech becoming more polished. Depending on your country, the first six months costs about $90, $70 thereafter – your first years’ dues are less than an hour with a coach.
Besides, you never know when you’ll need to purr your thanks at the Oscars™, graciously receive an award at the company dinner, or introduce someone at a conference.
How do you feel about public speaking? I’d love to hear your triumphs and your Savvy recoveries.
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