You’ve heard it many times, the number one fear in life isn’t death—it’s public speaking, but what if by becoming a public speaker, you could reach your greatest potential?



Breakthrough practices like learning to speak publicly can change your life. “If you can do well what so many others do marginally, then you will be more successful,” says Mark Tamer, author of Presentations A to Z, The Handbook for Presenters. Plenty of evidence supports the assertion that people with superior presentation skills achieve success faster, and go farther. Why is that? By being an excellent communicator, you master the art of human connection, setting in motion the transfer of knowledge, feeling, and wisdom to others. The more you master this connection, here’s what’s happening to you and for you.



You build self-confidence. Coming across as confident is a common characteristic of successful presenters. Public speaking is a skillset that we can all learn--it’s a matter of long preparation, practice and review. The payoff can be immense especially for those who really have the sincere desire to come out from their shell and shine.



You are seen as credible. Part of the preparation process for speaking to others is to know your subject matter. Clearly defining your key message and supporting information, will start to build your expertise. People listen to those who have information that is trustworthy and can be used or acted upon.



You learn to listen. Mark Tamer writes, “Good presenters should understand how the message personally impacts each member of the audience.” Learning to listen to your audience will not only provide interaction, but provide your audience the opportunity to express their interests, opinions and concerns of the topic. I’ve learned that their stories and input provide material I can use the next time I speak on a topic.



“Know that you are worth being heard. If there’s something inside of you that is important to you—you should share it out loud,” says Dana Bristol-Smith founder of Speak for Success. Our words have power. If we don’t share our words out loud, and hold back, we stay stuck in situations we don’t want. When we’re willing to break through our inhibitions, if we are willing to break through our inner glass ceilings, our words have the ability to do that.



Find your voice and unlock your potential!