Monday, March 21, 2011


Here's the good news: Being an introvert doesn't mean you'll be a failure as a public speaker. Many an introvert has gone on to a great speaking career, and introverts speak up in meetings and conference calls every day in the workplace.

But introverted speakers do benefit from understanding how this personality factor applies to public speaking and presenting, so they can better plan and manage it. Here are the best of The Eloquent Woman's insights for introverts on public speaking:
  1. Get a better handle on your speaker self: If you're an introvert, or think you might be one, you'll benefit from thinking through these four factors, including your introversion, before you figure out what you need to improve as a speaker.
  2. Factor in your personality type takes that a step further and looks at the differences between extroverts and introverts when it comes to public speaking--using Hillary Clinton as an introvert example. Two good books on understanding your personality type also are noted.
  3. A checklist to prepare the whole speaker--annotated for introverts:  This checklist works for any speaker, but introverts will want to prepare even more for public speaking or presenting tasks, so it's ideal for them. I've included specific questions introverts should ask on this list that looks at all aspects of what a speaker should consider before a presentation, meeting or speech, from body and mind to equipment and audience.
  4. 8 reasons speakers should check (out) your audience at the door: Does the idea of connecting with a big audience scare you back into your seat? Try this effective tactic--one that works well for either extroverts or introverts, for different reasons--to get to know your audience before you begin speaking.
  5. Does an introvert's speaking style aid leadership?  Most introverts think extroverts always win in the workplace, but introverts have important bonuses. You're less likely to wing it and more likely to bring a thoughtful approach, among other advantages. Read this post to make the most of your introvert advantages.
  6. Speaking up for introverts: A business coach took the time to analyze her introversion and pinpoint what it means for her in everyday meetings, speeches and presentations. Learn from her roadmap to how she needs to handle interactions--she translates it all into "What does that need to look like on Monday morning?"

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