Standing
Up Front:
Many people
rank their fear of public speaking greater than their fear of death, but
Langley Toastmasters can help change that idea. The thought of standing in
front of a group of strangers -- or even of friends—and speaking to the group
makes them shrink into a frightened mess. When someone like this needs to
deliver a presentation, they try to get someone else to stand up front. When
they must speak their knees may knock; their stomach probably flutters; their
hands may clench; their lips might quiver; and their voice can squeak or even
fail altogether... but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are ways to
overcome this fear.
Image
Right: Chris Rumsey, Computational Aerosciences
Branch, speaks during the impromptu session of a toastmasters meeting. Credit:
Sean Smith
One of the best ways to overcome a fear is to confront
the fear in a safe manner. And one of the best ways to overcome the fear of
public speaking is to join Toastmasters. When you speak in a Toastmasters
meeting, it does not impact your job review or embarrass you in front of your
peers or boss or friends. Every Toastmaster is pledged to maintain a positive,
friendly environment. Every Toastmaster is pledged to treat other members or
guests with respect and courtesy. And no matter how well or poorly you think
you performed, every Toastmaster is pledged to provide helpful, constructive
evaluations! It is all part of the plan to help you succeed in your speaking
goals.
When you are ready and willing to speak publicly, the benefits of Toastmasters
actually increase! Even the most advanced speakers in a club are evaluated in a
helpful and constructive way. In fact, the most advanced speakers demand
evaluations that challenge them to improve all aspects of their delivery. All
members have opportunities to practice leadership skills as well as
communication skills. Toastmasters can practice leadership by take on meeting
roles such as Evaluator or Toastmaster of the Day (like a Master of
Ceremonies); lead the club as a club officer; or plan and lead events such as a
club or area speech contest.
So if you are ready to try standing up front, or if you already have to stand
up front and just want to be better at it, consider joining Toastmasters today.
The NASA Langley Club #3184 meets at 1130 every 2nd and 4th Wednesday in the