Becoming a confident speaker when your written work has been better than your spoken word can be challenging, but it's definitely achievable with practice and dedication. Here are some tips to help you improve your spoken communication skills and build confidence as a speaker:
Practice regularly: Like any skill, speaking needs practice. Make a conscious effort to speak in various settings, such as social gatherings, meetings, or presentations. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you'll become.
Start small: Begin by speaking in front of a small and supportive audience, like close friends or family. Gradually increase the size of your audience as you gain confidence.
Join a speaking group or club: Consider joining a public speaking group or Toastmasters club. These environments provide a safe space to practice speaking, receive constructive feedback, and learn from others.
Record yourself: Record your speeches or practice sessions, and listen to or watch them later. This helps you identify areas for improvement and track your progress.
Work on your body language: Pay attention to your body language while speaking. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and use hand gestures to emphasize points. Positive body language enhances your overall delivery.
Speak slowly and clearly: Avoid rushing through your speech. Speak at a comfortable pace, and enunciate your words clearly. This allows the audience to follow your message better.
Focus on the message, not perfection: Don't strive for flawless delivery; instead, concentrate on conveying your ideas effectively. People are more interested in the content than minor mistakes.
Engage the audience: Make an effort to connect with your audience by asking questions, sharing anecdotes, or involving them in your presentation. Engaging the audience makes the experience more interactive and enjoyable for both you and them.
Know your material: Be well-prepared and knowledgeable about the topic you are speaking about. Confidence often comes from being well-versed in the subject matter.
Visualize success: Before speaking in public, visualize yourself delivering a successful speech. Imagine yourself feeling confident, engaging the audience, and receiving positive feedback.
Accept feedback graciously: Seek feedback from others, and be open to constructive criticism. Use feedback as an opportunity to grow and improve your speaking skills.
Stay positive: Avoid being overly critical of yourself. Celebrate your progress and focus on the improvements you make along the way.
Remember, it's natural to feel nervous when starting to speak in public, but with time and consistent effort, your confidence will grow. Embrace the learning process and be patient with yourself as you work towards becoming a more confident speaker.