Professional development

Train your public speaking muscles

10 tips to help safety pros strengthen their skills

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Photo: Missouri Department of Transportation/flickr

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Read tips 1 through 5 on page 1

6

Make it personal

Look for opportunities to share personal experiences and stories. What have you experienced as a safety pro and how can it help get your key points across?

7

Understand virtual platforms

Presenting virtually requires just as much practice as doing so in person. Work on directly addressing your audience via the camera. When making a key point, stop sharing your screen and engage with your audience. Also, know ahead of time if attendees will be using the chat function or asking questions verbally.

8

Take it easy

Instead of being your own biggest critic, focus on a positive mindset before a presentation. This can often raise your comfort level and help build your confidence.

9

Lean on your community

Discuss the process with your safety colleagues. Ask them about how they handle certain situations during presenta-tions and what’s most likely to keep audience members engaged. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback.

10

Invest in assistance

Help can come in a variety of ways, whether it’s a $20 course at the library or hiring a communication coach or agency. Look for coaches or agencies that are accredited, ask about their approach to working with speakers, and make sure it matches your needs.

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