Photo by: Syda Productions via Canva
I remember the feeling like it was yesterday. I was in university and scrolling through my course options for the upcoming semester. I stopped in my tracks when I saw it listed and thought, “Heck no, I will NEVER take this course.” You may be asking what course it was. Well, the subject was none other than, public speaking.
I’m guessing you can figure out how that went, considering I am writing this blog. I must say, despite the trepidation, it was one of the best decisions I made. I, like almost 77% of the population, had some level of anxiety about talking in front of people. Fast forward to present day, and I’m using those public speaking skills in my current role as a virtual classroom producer.
Here are my top four tips for applying public speaking skills to your training program delivery.
Organize Your Speaking Points
Like any good public speaker, know what you want to say. Focus on the “need-to-know” rather than the “nice-to-know.” If you are following a lesson plan, these points will be laid out for you. Use anecdotes and stories to illustrate your points. To avoid sounding robotic, don’t write things out word for word. Instead, use easy-to-read bullet points, so you can allow your own style and personality to shine through!
Keep Your Speaking Points Brief and Easy to Understand
Using wordy sentences can dilute your message. Keep your phrases brief and use language that is familiar to your participants. Stay away from jargon as much as possible.
Create Contingency Plans
Public speakers always have a contingency plan. These “Plan B’s” provide you with alternatives for presenting and applying content. They can be provided by the instructional designer, or you may need to create your own. As well, they can be added directly to the lesson plan or as an attachment. Check with your organization to see which format they would prefer.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Grab a timer and go through your lessons like you were teaching them live. Public speakers know the importance of repetition. Get comfortable adding your own examples and work on your rate of speech. If you are unable to gather a small audience, set up your phone on a tripod to record yourself. Repeat as needed to feel confident in front of an audience!
Remember, perfection is not the objective—it’s about showing up as the credible and confident trainer you are.
For more tips on how to develop your presentation skills, check out our Instructional Techniques for New Instructors, New Trainer’s Survival Skills, and The Virtual Trainer workshops.
Be sure to check out part two of this blog series where I focus on managing the nervousness and anxiety that trainers often face.
