Do you enjoy public speaking?

I didn't but now I do. What happened? Life gave me opportunities to, "do it anyway," and eventually I walked away with awards for public speaking...not bad for the shy girl who liked to sit in the back of the class. I had to take the risk though and the truth is, we all speak in public more than we think. Do you ever introduce someone to a group of friends?  Make a business proposal to a customer or speak at a family gathering...well, you get the point.  

Where can I practice speaking in public?

Opportunities to get comfortable speaking in public are numerous.  People of all levels of experience join Toastmasters International to grow their speaking skills in a safe place. Helping with a Sunday School Class, representing a community cause you feel strongly about or even becoming a docent for a museum or a local zoo are great sources of experience. If you really want to branch out, join a community acting group and audition for a bit part to help you gain confidence. 

Practice makes perfect!

Where ever you choose to speak, remember to practice. Practicing in front of the mirror or recording yourself to see what your voice and mannerisms look like to others is helpful.  Know your material and give the group you are addressing a quality presentation using as few notes as possible.

Writers don't need to know how to speak publicly do they?

Yes, first they will need to know an elevator speech. Suppose you get in an elevator with a magazine publisher you want to write for. You would want to be prepared to present yourself and "sell" yourself as a writer, right?  Your next step would be a "pitch" for each book you are working on.  A pitch gives is short idea of the book and is sort of a teaser. Make it interesting and give it with easy confidence. No pushing. In a natural way, make it so tantalizing that the publisher/editor can't wait to read your book. If you become a published author, you can expect to have book signings and even interviews.  So be prepared to be successful. 

Be prepared

If God has called you to write or to speak publicly, He put that seed of desire in your heart for a reason. Nurture it. If an opportunity to give a book pitch or a public speaking event happens, you will be ready to step into the moment God has planned for you!