M A N A G E R ’ S N OT E B O O K
The King-Size Fear of Public Speaking
Tips to improve your next speech
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n the opening scene of the Academy Award-winning film The King’s Speech, Prince Albert, played by Colin Firth, is unable to finish even the first line of a speech given in front of hundreds of his subjects and countless thousands of radio listeners. The scene is painful viewing, and it surely reminds us of our own less than magnificent public speaking moments. But looked at in another light, how Prince Albert, who later was elevated to King George VI, learned throughout the film to manage his stammer is a teachable moment for all of us wishing to improve our public speaking skills. First and foremost, we learn that the fear of public speaking is conquerable. Though he has a speech impediment, the King steadily improves his speaking abilities thanks to an inner drive to succeed and assistance from his speech therapistturned-mentor. By movie’s end, we watch as the King delivers a live radio address that gives hope to the British people during one of the darkest hours of World War II. While most of us aren’t carrying the weight of a nation on our shoulders, we all have public speaking opportunities that have the potential to elevate ourselves, our company or organization. Inspired by the King’s triumph, I’ve prepared a list of King’s Tips to help you overcome – and thrive – the next time you encounter your
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own moment in the spotlight.
The King’s Tip: Always stand up to deliver a speech of importance Many business presentations are delivered through teleconferences or meetings where the speaker has the opportunity to sit. Avoid this temptation. Instead, stand up to place yourself in an assertive posture and allow deeper breathing from your diaphragm. Opera singers employ this advice, knowing that standing up improves vocal quality projection. King George VI gave his historic radio address in a small room with only his mentor as witness. But he stood, rather than sat, ensuring that his voice would project forcefully and clearly. Standing up also gives you the freedom to use body gestures and other visual cues to keep the audience’s attention. In a standing position, it’s physically easier to see a larger number of audience members, giving you valuable information whether your listeners understand your message and are engaged.
The King’s Tip: Get comfortable projecting your voice An engaging speaking voice is a key part
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of success in the business world. Strength and authority start with becoming comfortable with the sound of your own voice. Most of us are shy and self-conscious when speaking to groups, especially if it’s not something we do on a regular basis. To become comfortable with public speaking, practice speaking aloud, ideally in a meeting room. Work on projecting your voice so that someone at the back of the room would hear. The King’s mentor encouraged him to sing out of an open window. While you don’t necessarily need to wake up your neighbors, find other fun excuses to raise your voice. Play a sport or referee a soccer match at your children’s school. Aside from vocal improvements, conditioning exercises to strengthen your abdominal muscles will enable you to better fill your lungs with air. The King’s mentor instructed his wife to sit on his stomach while speaking, but my advice is traditional sit-ups. Now you have another reason to get to the gym!
The King’s Tip: Great speakers are made, not born Few are born naturally great public speakers. However, the good news is, like any skill, your public speaking skills can be developed. While you won’t become a