I can still vividly remember when I decided to speak out at work in a meeting.
My heart was beating so fast, palms were sweaty and words were coming out real quick.
All I kept saying to myself (in my head) was “I’m going to make a fool out of myself” “They are going to think who hired this bozo?” “What are they thinking now?” “Are they getting my message?” “Are they getting me” …well you get the gist!!
It wasn’t a very empowering situation!! nor was it one that encouraged or inspired me to kept speaking out.
However, in 2004 I was undertaking a project that required me to become a more effective speaker.
Since then, I have immersed myself in numerous personal and professional development courses.
The motivation came from a strong desire to be heard and to make a difference.
If you wish to progress in your career and be an inspiring leader, you need to learn how to become an effective communicator.
When you are empowered to speak, you develop greater confidence in who you are as a person and ultimately a leader.
We all have ideas, thoughts and opinions that are worth sharing.
The first person that put ourselves down is us. (even though the voices might come from people in the past)
Self Confidence is a crucial ingredient for success and something that I am passionate about helping individuals to develop.
3 strategies (or way of thinking) that I want to share with you today that you can implement right away :-
1) It’s not about you
When you are talking to a group or speaking to an audience, you have to remember “It’s not about you”.
Focus on what is your message to them.
Are you sharing an update with them? Do you want them to have a better understanding of a particular subject? Are you wanting them to feel a certain way? Would you require them to take certain action?
Shift your focus to your purpose.
2) Everyone is different
When you are talking, you might find people looking away, looking “bored”, or just not really “listening to you”?
It is really out of our control how people react or don’t react.
It is important to accept that everyone is different and may react differently. It is ok.
The person who is seating looking “bored”, may just be digesting your message in a different way. You don’t know what is going through their head and also what they are getting out of your sharing.
Shift your focus to your purpose.
3) Be authentic (keep it real!)
This one is simple yet pretty challenging to many.
“Keeping it real” means you spend less energy on “trying” to be someone that you think they will like and respect.
Everyone has a unique presence and the more you can bring “you” into the conversation and be comfortable with this, you will find others becoming intrigued and engaged with you.
When you are sharing from a genuine space, you will establish trust with the audience which helps you to relax and effectively communicate.
Shift your focus to your purpose.
Your purpose is two-fold, your purpose as a person (and in a role) and the purpose of your communication.
Success is knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds that benefit others.” – John C. Maxwell
Knowing your purpose is part of leader development and a “must” for anyone who aspires to have a more fulfilling career and life.
As you are about to address a group (whether it’s 3 or 30), you will feel more empowered when you tell yourself that “it’s not about you”, “everyone is different” and just “keep it real”.
For assistance and support in leadership and career development, email debbie@empoweredtospeak.com.au