Public Speaking

Speak with confidence, manage nerves, and hold an audience

Why It Matters

Fear of speaking in front of others is common, and it keeps capable people from volunteering ideas, leading meetings, or representing their organization at events. Speakers who rush, read, or freeze lose the audience regardless of content. Building speaking confidence pays off well beyond formal speeches: in team meetings, interviews, and community settings. Organizations gain more voices willing to step forward and represent the mission.

Course Description

Unlike a presentation course built around slides and structure, this one focuses on the person at the front of the room. Participants begin by naming what makes them nervous and learning practical techniques for managing physical anxiety, including breathing, grounding, and preparation routines. Voice work covers pace, volume, pausing, and vocal variety. Movement and presence exercises address stance, gestures, and eye contact with a group. A storytelling segment helps participants shape a short personal story with a clear point. Speaking rounds start small and build, with supportive feedback after each turn and optional video review. Participants also practice impromptu speaking for moments when they are called on unexpectedly. Each person leaves with a personal preparation routine and goals for their next speaking opportunity.

Key Focus Areas

Participants explore and practice:

Practical techniques for managing nerves before and while speaking
Voice: pace, volume, pausing, and vocal variety
Presence, movement, and eye contact with a group
Shaping a short story with a clear point
Impromptu speaking when called on unexpectedly
Building a personal preparation routine

Learning Outcomes

Participants will be able to:

Use breathing and preparation techniques to manage speaking nerves
Vary pace, volume, and pauses to keep an audience engaged
Deliver a short personal story with a clear message
Respond to an impromptu speaking prompt with a simple structure
Create a personal routine for preparing to speak

Who Should Attend

Professionals who avoid speaking in groups
Emerging leaders and youth program participants
Community-facing and outreach staff
Employees who represent the organization at events

Delivery and Customization

Examples, scenarios, and activities are adapted to your audience and goals. Delivery is available in person, virtually, or in a hybrid format, as a standalone session or as part of a series. Format and length are agreed during scoping.

Related Courses

Presentation Skills · Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Assertiveness and Self-Confidence · Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Elevator Pitch · Career Readiness & Growth
Body Language Basics · Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Bring Public Speaking to your team

Tell us about your audience and goals. We will follow up to scope objectives, format, and timing.

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