In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to communicate effectively is more crucial than ever.
Public speaking isn’t just about addressing a large audience; it’s a life skill that can make or break your career.
In a recent episode of the Conversation Capital, host Ursula Mariani engaged in a lively discussion with public speaking coach Vanessa Bukasa, who shared her inspiring journey from chartered accountant to empowering others through the art of communication.
Vanessa, a dedicated mother and sister, balances her career in banking with her passion for coaching.
She helps corporate professionals and entrepreneurs find their voice and speak with confidence.
Her mission?
To enable people to make the impact they aspire to achieve.
But how did she transition from the world of finance to becoming a public speaking coach?
The shift wasn’t instantaneous.
Vanessa recounted a moment in her career when she felt trapped beneath a glass ceiling despite her hard work.
Promotions eluded her, and she realized that merely excelling in her job wasn’t enough.
After attending various leadership and personal branding courses, she discovered a common thread: effective communication was the key to unlocking her potential.
This realization spurred her to take action.
Initially hesitant to voice her ideas in meetings, Vanessa began to challenge herself by speaking up, even when she felt her contributions were obvious.
To her surprise, stating the obvious often led to meaningful discussions and new ideas.
As she gained confidence, she started to get noticed, leading to promotions and opportunities she had once thought unattainable.
Ursula and Vanessa emphasized the importance of visibility in the workplace.
If you want to be recognized, you must make your presence known.
Many talented individuals remain overlooked simply because they don’t speak up.
Vanessa pointed out that while nerves are natural, they shouldn’t prevent you from sharing your insights.
So, what are the essential tips for someone looking to improve their public speaking skills?
Vanessa highlighted that public speaking occurs in many contexts, not just on grand stages.
Whether you’re in a meeting, an interview, or a casual conversation, every interaction presents an opportunity to practice.
Understanding this can shift your perspective and encourage you to take these moments seriously.
Confidence, as Vanessa noted, isn’t merely about being extroverted or having high self-esteem.
It’s about trust—trusting yourself to deliver what you promised.
She shared techniques like deep breathing and slowing down your speech to help manage nerves.
These strategies not only calm the mind but also enhance clarity and engagement with your audience.
Another critical aspect of public speaking is adopting a service mindset.
Instead of focusing on how you appear to others, concentrate on delivering value to your audience.
Vanessa likened it to ordering online; when you receive your package, you care more about whether it meets your expectations than about the delivery person’s appearance.
This mindset can alleviate pressure and help you focus on your message.
Preparation is key.
Whether it’s a presentation at work or a speech at a wedding, taking the time to plan your points can significantly boost your confidence.
Vanessa recalled how she meticulously prepared for a friend’s wedding speech over a year, which ultimately led to a successful delivery.
For those looking to support others in their public speaking journey, Vanessa advised approaching the situation delicately.
Building rapport is essential before offering constructive criticism.
Sharing insights in a supportive manner creates an environment where individuals feel safe to grow and improve.
In closing, public speaking is a vital skill that everyone should cultivate.
It’s not just about standing in front of an audience; it’s about advocating for yourself and your ideas in any situation.
As Vanessa encouraged, we must all embrace the learning process, allowing ourselves to be vulnerable and grow from our experiences.
With resources like Vanessa’s coaching services and her book, “Speaking with Confidence: The Secret Source of Success,” anyone can embark on the journey to becoming a more effective communicator.
So, are you ready to take the plunge and master the art of public speaking?
Your career—and your confidence—will thank you.
