Public speaking is anytime you are speaking to someone other than your self.
And Shakespeare said it long ago, “All the world’s a stage”.
I think he sees conversation the same way I see it. We live very public lives and every time we speak or are in the presence of another person we are “on”.
But people tend to focus on improving their speaking skills when it comes to those big presentations or media appearances. That’s all good but if we don’t apply the same attention to teleconferencing, social media and networking events not to mention day to day departmental meetings and casual conversations then important opportunities are being lost. The result? Loss of impact. Loss of credibility. Loss of momentum. Loss of income.
What to do?
Don’t wing it. Rather use the wings to prepare.
Just as an actor stands out of view of the audience to get into character, so should a professional pause before entering a room, a meeting or a phone call.
Stop.
Assemble. Gather your ideas so you leave behind one that’s memorable.
Intention. Aim your words so that they matter to the listener.
Dialogue . Listen to them with the focus on understanding not responding.
Do this and the repose will be, “Well SAID” more often than not.