Most people are afraid to speak in front of a crowd of strangers. That’s never been a problem for me. In fact as a kid in school my report cards consistently contained “good student but talks too much.” At least I never got sent to the Principal’s office for it.
A neighbor friend and I used to put on skits, play an out of tune piano, and sing (probably out of tune too) for invited neighbors in my basement.
I was a Girl Scout who went door to door to sell cookies that at that time only cost .50 cents a box. And I sold a whole lot of cookies.
I loved speech and drama class and would always volunteer to be first in any assigned demonstration. Might have been good to wait for a few others, or be last and most memorable, but that’s just not my way.
Ever go to a Comedy Club where the stage performer asks for a volunteer? I’d be the first to wave my hand and often get chosen.
When I became a Park Ranger my Mom said I’d finally found a job where I got paid to talk. Yes, and it’s the best job in the world.
I’m sure there’s an art to public speaking. Personally I think if you’re sincere, knowledgeable, articulate and don’t bore or overload your audience they’ll want to like you and give you the benefit of the doubt.
Doesn’t hurt to make notes or an outline ahead of time. This may help keep you on track. Have a theme to follow and some great ideas to support that. But heaven forbid, don’t read those notes in some monotonous voice and expect to keep anybody awake.
Make it relevant, whatever your talking about. Don’t just ramble.
You have to laugh at yourself and not take yourself too seriously.
Some people imagine the crowd sitting naked. I just keep panning across faces and smiling. What ever works.
What a gift to love public speaking! I can do it if I must but sure don't like it.
Oooh jealous. I am a TERRIBLE public speaker (there's a reason I'm a writer), but I'm using my public position on the ship to give talks/speeches when I can simply to someday conquer that fear!
Thanks for the follow on Twitter. I have read your blog before and really think your lifestyle is exciting. I've always thought being a park ranger would be fun. When I was a kid I have great fond memories of hikes and talks in parks across the country. – Margy
p.s. I used to be a principal. Kids that got sent to my office had to do even more talking (to get to the root of the problem). You might have even liked it.
Good that you found a job that suits you so well and that you love. I have done my share of public speaking but it's not something I really enjoy.
I envy your ability to talk in front of people. I tend to lose all ability of speech. Thanks for following me on Twitter too. I'm still working my way around that site and trying to figure it all out.
It's a great thing to work at something you love. My daughter and S-I-L work for the NPS doing sound monitoring. They were just at the Grand Cyn in August, I think. They live in UT but get to work in several beautiful locations. Like you, their "office" is outdoors! Enjoy! Thx for visiting my blog. I hope you'll take a minute to follow me (I did yours) and visit often! Hugs, Grace from Growing Old With Grace http://growing-old-with-grace.blogspot.com/
LOL! Gaelyn! What a sense of humor you have! Just had to pop over and say hi before going to bed! Thanks for all you comments!
There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you have engaged people with your passion and knowledge and if only one person learns something from you you have done your job…you do it here everytime you post! Thank you…
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P.S. Gaelyn your header photo is absolutely outstanding!
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I was terrified when N made plans for me to do a talk to Rotary about the my cycle ride from the bottom of England to the top of Scotland for charity. In fact it went so well, much to my surprise, that I did another couple of talks after that on different subjects. It is not so difficult when you get into the swing of it. Diane
I would most likely faint if i had to get up in front of people and talk. Glad there are people like you who are comfortable talking in front of crowds. I dont think picturing naked people would help me either..ha
Insightful post. As a teacher, I don't have a problem with public speaking either. I actually enjoy it.
hahahaha, love the cartoon at the end. You are a great speaker, and you are right, the perfect job for you!
I wasn't always too good at it while in school, but working as a tourist guide I became were comfortable with it and now I don't mind doing it at all. Not in front of crowds on the radio. I also believe in knowing what you want to say, but not rehersing it.
I remember those 50¢ cookies.