I was told tonight that I was an engaging speaker.

[coloradodem2005]

THis is the first time I think I have been told that. It was within a small group of people and I never saw it. Mainly because I have a hard time selling myself. I fear public speaking. I cannot do phon solicitation (be it selling or fundraising) to save my life. I find that interesting. I was told that I am like an orator.

[jjmalonejr]

1. Hopefully that will help your confidence

More confidence will make you an even MORE engaging speaker.

[coloradodem2005]

2. How come I have had such a hard time over the years?

I have had a lot of social anxiety. I also find the whole "sell yourself" attitude to be very disingenuous.

[jjmalonejr]

3. Don't sell yourself

Just BE yourself.

If one person found you to be engaging when you weren't trying to be, then you must have SOMETHING going for you.

I understand social anxiety, but it's just a hurdle to overcome. What's the worst thing that can happen?

[U2Fanatic]

4. so in other words....

you're a cunning linguist? ;)

[SoCalDem]

5. Public speaking is a big fear for most people, but I LOVE it

The bigger the group the better..

Kudos to YOU!!

a few tips for the stage frighties out there...


Just make eye contact with a few friendly-looking people and speak to them..Make sure they are in different locations in the audience so you don;t have that * stare..

Slow down.. most people speak too fast and don't realize it..

Keep hand gestures to a minimum...

Do not "eat" the microphone..Modern microphones work quite well without having your mouth right on top of it..

Dispense with the "corny joke" at the beginning of the speech.. Comedy is best left to the comedians.. If you start out with an unfunny joke, people may tune you out..

Know what you want to say...and then say it...