Speaking from the Stage Can Be Fun

If you’ve ever thought about speaking from the stage, my advice is DO IT. Public speaking can be a great way to get your name out there, raise your visibility in your industry and position you as an expert in your field. All of these can lead to bigger and better paying opportunities. When you first get started, you’ll most likely speak for free and to smaller audiences or to groups of individuals that do what you do. This is how most people get started.

There are also coaches out there who can work with you to develop your signature talk, craft a compelling personal narrative and find opportunities to present. I have worked with Regina D’Alesio and Jennifer Ransaw-Smith to hone my public speaking and personal brand speeches. One of my personal goals in 2013 was to find opportunities to get in front of groups of either communications students or professional marketing types. These events helped boost my confidence, refine my message and improve my stage presence. I also looked into the National Speakers Association and followed people who speak from the stage on a regular basis. I encourage communicators to do the same. I am excited to be flying to Chicago, IL next week to speak at PRSA’s Connect 14! conference to share Erickson Living’s employee communications program as a case study. My goal is to find a few more industry specific opportunities this year. I love sharing with my colleagues and I love seeing them benefit from what I have to share!