Through public speaking, you meet people from all walks of life. Despite how it may feel, no one is there to judge you on how you look, how old you are or WHO you are. They’re only there to listen to what you have to say. Your words, your performance.
As an audience member, the person up on stage may be completely different to you, but if their words truly resonate with you, then it doesn’t matter.
And that’s why public speaking can be a powerful way to teach or learn something.
Listen While You Learn
Now, public speaking itself IS a learning curve – in fact the second most top searched option for public speaking is learning how to do it (with the number one search result being how to conquer your fears of it!!).
But what people often forget is that even if you aren’t (or are not yet) a public speaker, you can still learn a lot just by listening.
You may feel motivated, empowered, or inspired to buy a new product. Perhaps you might feel emotional, and relate to the story being told. And you might discover something you never knew before.
Newfound Feelings
You see, when you’re motivated, you feel ready to try something new, or something you might’ve been putting off for a while. I’ve seen many people decide to write a new book, start a self-owned business, or share their own stories after hearing someone speak on stage (sometimes that someone is me!).
When you feel emotional, chances are something probably surprised you. Here’s the thing – when you expect something to upset you, or surprise you, it doesn’t quite have the same impact. But when it is unexpected, it is powerful.
Even if the speech is to sell a product – if you come away wanting to know more, then you’ve learnt something. Public speaking, done well, can create real impact – a moment of self-discovery.
A Personal Experience
Why is this so important? Because not only can public speaking be one of the quickest ways to learn, but it can also be the most authentic.
Think back to when you were in school – maybe you found a certain math problem difficult, and only once someone talked it through with you, step by step, were you able to finally start understanding it.
When you’re face to face with someone, it’s much easier to learn from them, because done well, public speaking builds trust which enables your audience to resonate with you.
Do you know what the best part is? When they hear inspirational speakers, it can inspire new speakers to start sharing their stories. If you’d like to hear more about how professional speakers make an impact, be sure to follow us on Strictly Come Speaking, or connect with us on LinkedIn!
Cheryl xx
P. S – If you liked this blog and want to read more blogs surrounding female empowerment, you can find last week’s here: ‘The Relationship With The Audience‘
“I’m on a global mission to help 10 million disheartened souls, who are at a crossroads, to STOP asking why me? And START saying why not me!”