The fact that you are introverted does not mean you can't have a successful career or be a successful public speaker. Take a look at Susan Cain, also known as the "Quiet Revolutionary". This woman, a lawyer by profession, has become one of the most famous introverts worldwide. In 2012, she published a book called Quiet: The Power of introverts in a World That Can not Stop Talking which was also published in a Czech translation (Jan Melvil Publishing, 2012). She criticizes the Western society which prefers the art of speaking above the ability to think and explains that introverts are strong because of who they are.
After the publication of her book, Cain went through a period she describes as the "Year of Speaking Dangerously." She stopped writing and started speaking. She, for example, presented her book on U.S. national television and in the now-legendary performance at the TED 2012 conference. Her TED talk called The Power of introverts, which was held in front of 1,500 people, made her a celebrity not only among introverts. More than 13 million people have seen the talk on the Internet so far.
Based on her experience, Susan Cain wrote the following ten commandments for introverts on how to cope better with speaking in front of people. She published the tips in a recent article on the LinkedIn network.
1. Prepare carefully
Your speech should be logically structured and include specific examples and stories. Practice it out loud. The more you rehearse, the less nervous you will be.
2. Consider what your audience wants to hear
Give your listeners what they want. It may be some new information, your personal opinion or suggestions how to solve a problem. It is important to think about the audience in advance.
3. Watch videos showing successful speakers
Focus mainly on shots from the speakers perspective, i.e. looking the audience. It will help you accept the role of a speaker everybody is looking at.
4. Visit the place of your speech
If possible, visit the place in advance. Stand on the podium and try how you will feel when looking to the audience.
5. Read transcripts of speeches made by successful speakers
Focus on how the speeches are structured, the opening and closing or how specific examples are presented. No one is born as a great speaker, you have to work hard.
6. Set up a video blog
Launch your own website or use social networks to create video posts where you can comment on something. This can be a fun kind of training.
7. Focus on your strengths
If you, for example, have a great sense of humor, involve humor in your presentations. Do not make jokes, however, if it is not natural for you. You speech should be based on the idea you want to share as well as on who you are as a person.
8. Become an actor
When people can hide behind a mask or a certain role, they feel more comfortable and independent. Just imagine costume balls. Try to think of your public speaking in the same way - as role playing.
9. Smile
Smiling will help you feel more relaxed and confident. Smile as soon as when you enter the room and start speaking.
10. Find something to laugh at
Find something that is guaranteed to make you laugh and you will get rid of your nervousness.You may, for instance, imagine the people in the audience having cabbages instead of their heads.
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