Rock The Mic & Sell More

I had the good fortune to present at The Baltimore Business Journal's fall expo on Thursday November 5th. The topic was public speaking (which I am very passionate about). I realize my personality lends itself to being in the spotlight and there are many people that are terrified of it. I understand that emotion. The first time I had to speak in front of a group, I thought I was going to pass out. But I got through it and as I repeated the presentation it got better and better. And that is the key 

PRACTICE IS THE ONLY WAY TO OVERCOME THAT FEAR

 

I don't mean practice in front of a mirror, but practice in front of groups, start small, maybe 5-10 people, get feedback about what they liked. Did they notice you fidgeting or any other distancing habits? Did they notice trouble with certain words or phrases? Take all their feedback and then do it again. Each time will make you a little bit better

 

JOIN A TOASTMASTERS GROUP

 

I have been a member of Toastmasters for almost three years and I love what it has done for my skills as a speaker and leader. You can go to their website plug in your zip code and it will show you dozens of groups that meet close to where you live. It is inexpensive and it builds confidence.

 

HIRE A COACH

 

If the group setting is not for you, there are plenty of public speaking coaches out there that will work with you. It is not my primary skill, but it is one I enjoy helping people with.

 

WHY SHOULD I BOTHER MIKE?

 

Better confidence with public speaking means you will be able to engage more customers and drive more business for your company. It also helps productivity ( for all departments) because the process of becoming a great speaker helps you also learn better ways to communicate with people. Better communication helps company culture.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

 Submit your questions on the blog. Send me an email mike@mikeshelah.com or call me 443-808-1670. I am also available via my website www.mikeshelah.com and you can follow me on twitter @mikeshelah. No excuses! go out and be great!