b'| CAREER GUIDEThe Power of Confidence in Developing Public Speaking SkillsUsing humor and appreciation in healthcareBy Dr. Steve SobelM y first important message aboutwords without hesitation and to be clear onBreathe deeply.the above title is that the contin- what you want to say. Deep breathing will calm the rapid heartbeat ual development of public speakingThe ability to literally stand in front of aof excitement and lead to the development skills is not just for folks in management posi- group takes courage, which will grow intoof poise. Poise is a key component of a great tions in healthcare. confidence. public speaker. Throughout your messages to It is a skill that can reap wonderful divi- Confidence will follow any public speakingstaff, let them know you appreciate all they do dends for line staff, direct care providers, andappearance and become the wind under youror how they have helped guide you. People you those that need to build collaboration on notwings. People are attracted to those who candeal with will appreciate your humility, grati-only their respective teams, but in conversa- command the attention of a diverse group oftude, and genuine ability to guide them.tions with individuals. The ability to speak inpeople and put them at ease. Here are a few public is also commensurate with being ablepointers for your public speaking ascent toDont panic.to accurately and passionately communicategreatness! If you bumble or mispronounce some words, needs essential to doing your demandinguse humor/levity not to apologize to your healthcare job. Develop a few key ideas a day prior toaudience, but to graciously connect withyour public speaking appearance. them. Phrases such as I guess the caffeine CONFIDENCE AND COURAGE A few bullet points will do. Write them downin my coffee got the best of me is a phrase Most people in recent studies fear publicand peruse them several times until they sinkthat allows your audience to know you are speaking more than death! Can you imaginein. Do not read directly from any preparedhuman and will make mistakes. It puts you on that? speech. Practice your delivery by looking ineven ground with the group. You can quickly The most powerful outgrowth of learningthe mirrordo this a few times. Try to mon- recover and go on. No one is grading you.to speak effectively to a group is confidence.itor your facial expressionsthey should bePublic speaking is not a test; it is a process Confidence will radiate to other areas of yourrelaxed. Smile after a key point. Learn to hes- designed to connect to your audience and life. Being a sound public speaker takes workitate, not stall, between thoughtsjust a sec- motivate them to new heights and to also let ISTOCKdeveloping the ability to string togetherond or two. them know you are one of them.www.elitecme.com |2020| CAREER GUIDE 17'