The catalyst for me in becoming a better speaker was learning how to write. Specifically how to write correctly, use of syntax, word placement, and flow.
Yes, you can practice speaking in front of an audience to get over stage fright. But your stage fright is less about your comfort level of being seen and more about knowing your topic well.
Being able to talk about your subject with colleagues is one thing, but having to put together your thoughts so that it can be understood by people outside of your industry forces you to think about your subject in a deeper and more meaningful way.
Once you have written down your thoughts on a particular subject, then being able to say it off the cuff makes it that much easier. In this way, nothing has to be memorized.
Reading can also help you become a better writer. But you must analyze why you are drawn to certain authors and what makes their writing so appealing. That will help you enhance your critical thinking skills enough to affect your writing.
Reading about what makes good writing is best. Then practice writing. Those two things, in that order, will take your speaking to another level.
Your comfort level on stage will improve dramatically when you already know what you are going to say — and knowing what to say comes from knowing your subject well. Knowing your subject well comes from writing about it. Writing about your subject well enough where the readers understand and even enjoy reading it comes from learning how to write well.
So, my friends, keep writing.
My recommendation for a book on writing: On Writing Well by William Zinsser.
Kommentare