Professionally Speaking Magazine – Spring 2009
Practice Makes Perfect
One inescapable truth about public speaking is that the more you do it the better you get — practice makes perfect. Like many other pursuits, being an accomplished speaker takes time and effort. The first time most of us spoke in public we felt awkward, unsure, terrified even. It was no different the first time we strapped on skis, swung a golf club or rode a horse.
Those who now ski, golf or ride with apparent ease — especially those who make a living at it — will attest to the hours, days and years of dedicated effort taken to achieve mastery. It is the same with professional speakers. No-one is born knowing how to speak effectively to an audience. It is, however, a skill that can be taught, if you’re willing to invest the time and money to learn. Professional sports teams pay handsomely for the best coaches. Even Tiger Woods takes every opportunity to spend time with his coach.
It’s rather surprising that few amateur speakers invest in any form of coaching. There’s a wide range of support available from the members of the Northern California Chapter of the NSA. From the services of elite presentation coaches, to speech writers and graphics consultants, there is no reason your next speech needs to be a hit-or-miss attempt.
Visit our Chapter meetings for a taste of the professionalism we bring to the art of public speaking. Meanwhile, enjoy this edition of PROFESSIONALLY SPEAKING. The articles have been written by speakers with a total of over 100 years of experience! That’s a lot of practice. Read about the lessons they’ve learned along the way and you will surely pick up something that will improve your next speech. It’s a perfect opportunity.
In this Issue
Susan RoAne — Networks as safety nets during gritty times. Learn how to strengthen yours.
Marilyn Manning, CSP, CMC — How a clear vision, values and mission position you for success.
Aldonna Ambler, CSP, CMC — Tips for obtaining corporate sponsorship to grow your business.
Ford Saeks — Ways to increase bookings, boost product sales, and watch your business grow.
Craig Harrison — Improving your customer service orientation to close more business.
Lauren Mayer — Tips from a professional entertainer to address common audience distractions.
Marci Shimoff — Boost your happiness quotient … right now!
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