Public Speaking

I’ve always had an interest in different forms of public speaking going through school and college. Stuff like debating, speech writing and even done a little bit of stand-up comedy too…mixed results with all to be honest, but great fun when it goes right.

A local club near me actually has an open mike night in a genuine sense; you sign up with a pre-written presentation on anything (mine is an introduction to epistemology, a field of philosophy surrounding how we know anything).

It’s quite a rare function to have, at least where I live, so I was just wondering what other people get out of doing a bit of public speaking, and what they think makes you good at it!

I used to do public speaking, I did the LAMDA exams, got from grade 3 through 7 and onto silver medal. Mostly speaking verse and prose rather than actually presenting. There was a lot of theory too at the higher grades, learning how to project your voice etc.

I lost interest as I got older and discovered cars, girls, and alcohol. It did however stand me in good stead for interviews where I was required to give a presentation, and then later on in my role as a national training manager conducting training sessions.

Can't honestly say I do it for recreational purpose anymore. Interesting to hear about the open mike night, sounds like there could be lots of interesting talks/presentations.

It's a funny old thing but in spite of my day job involving public speaking ad nauseum, i still get nervous speaking within a group my peers.

I can identify with that.....was never too keen on taking full school assemblies either
John

To be good at public speaking is a very impressive skill to have and one that will benefit in many walks of life. I find it nerve wracking and would love to be better at it.