In survey after survey, people rank “public speaking” as one of their top fears. But public speaking is a necessary skill – and one that can make or break your opportunities during the job search.
Whether you decide to take a class, work with a friend, or simply practice in front of the mirror, brushing up on your public speaking skills could be the best decision you make for your career. Here’s how:
- Good public speaking skills let your knowledge shine through. Being able to clearly articulate your thoughts and connect with your audience helps you demonstrate your knowledge and experience. The medium – you speaking to an audience – doesn’t get in the way of the message. Good public speaking skills let you impress potential employers and networking connections with your specific insights and expertise.
- “Public speaking” doesn’t always include an audience and a lectern. When many people think of “public speaking,” they picture themselves standing behind a podium while a roomful of expectant faces follows their every move. In fact, every time you talk to an audience, you’re engaging in a form of “public speaking.” Interviews are a form of public speaking, as are giving presentations at professional conferences and networking with like-minded individuals in your field. When you’re more confident in the content of your message and more comfortable delivering it, your ability to navigate these key job search moments improves.
- Practicing public speaking improves confidence and Preparing to give any public-speaking message, from an interview to a speech, builds your knowledge base. You need to know who your audience is, what its key concerns are, and what message you want your audience to walk away understanding. You need to know your subject matter, whether you’re giving a how-to lesson on an important task in your field or talking about the intricacies of your professional experience. All this knowledge-building prepares you to be the “expert in the room,” which increases your confidence and assures your audience that you’re the right person for the job.
- Good public speakers are more likely to be hired – and to stand out on the job. Not everyone is good at public speaking, so strong public speaking skills can help you stand out among candidates with similar credentials. Candidates who give a polished performance in interviews or presentations are also more likely to impress hiring managers and to find themselves receiving job offers.
At Kent Legal, our experienced recruiters specialize in helping qualified legal support professionals connect with law firms and legal departments in the Toronto area. Contact us today to learn more.
