You Are ALWAYS Speaking in Public

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David Barringer Writer, Author, Philosopher and Son


 "Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is to you."

                                                                                                     Ralph Waldo Emerson

We have all been subjected to many so-called experts tell us of rules, strategies, suggestions, and techniques that will help us with be better public speakers. Everyone has a different take on the subject. Lately, with everyone more concerned with making eye contact and talking with their phone, speaking to real people seems to be more and more challenging and may require more effort.

My First Rule of Public Speaking is you have to have something to say. Public Speaking is harder if you don't have something, or anything, to say. A number of people ignore that and start talking anyway. You have probably met a more than a few of those.

So, yes, I am going to suggest yet another technique especially if you find speaking to real people a bit disconcerting. To get comfortable speaking in public is to actually Speak More in Public. Seems logical. The more you practice speaking in public, taking every opportunity, the easier it will be and the better you will be. The trick is finding a way to speak in public and practice without getting nervous.

Here is the Secret Strategy that nobody talks about - use every conversation as an opportunity. When you are speaking to your plumber, your mailman, your neighbor, your co-worker, even your boss, think of it as a public speaking moment. It is. You are speaking in public. Make eye contact. Speak clearly. Smile. Even if you just manage a "Good morning, how are you?" to your neighbor as you are getting in your car, consider that practice. 

Public Speaking is, after all, having a conversation with your audience.

When you make an effort at simple conversation, that seemingly little bit of Small Talk, think about your posture, body language, articulation, tone of voice, maybe eye contact, and smile! Start small. But be Genuine!

Here's an easy starter project - if you see someone walking their dog, stop the car, roll down the window, and compliment them on what a beautiful, sweet, fluffy, cute, lovely, well-behaved dog they have. The person will be happy, and who will then pet the dog who will now be happy. You've made the person happy, the dog is happy, you will feel good, and you have practiced Public Speaking! - all for free! Or, try complementing someone's garden, new car, children, smart purchase at Costco, etc. You get the idea.

When you are ready to learn more simple, strategic, DIY tips, contact Barringer Consultants for FREE digital eBook, Top 7 Strategies for a Dynamic Voice.


“You taught me to speak in the real world." K.W.,  Client

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