Coach's Corner: Overcoming Public Speaking Jitters

• Citation: Vol. 20 No. 2
• Publication year: 2014
• Author: By Eleanor Southers

Coach's Corner: Overcoming Public Speaking Jitters

By Eleanor Southers

Eleanor Southers is a Professional Legal Coach who helps attorneys at all stages of their careers to become more successful and contented. Working one on one, Ms. Southers guides attorneys to uncover and fulfill their goals. She can be reached atesouthers@aol.com or her website: www.southerslaw.net.

Everyone knows that most people rank public speaking right up there with root canals, or at least it is something to be avoided at all costs. Unfortunately, attorneys also know that being an effective speaker, whether in Court or in a Seminar, is a great benefit to their profession.

Although there is not enough space here to go into details, I want to open up a conversation for us to explore why it is so scary and how attorneys can work towards feeling more comfortable in speaking.

Let's first look at why this topic causes so much fear. Are you afraid you will make a mistake? You have no idea what to speak about? Do you think everyone will walk out when you start speaking? Do you feel like speaking will open you up to criticism? The reasons go on and on. See if you can identify your reasons.

Next, is to refute the idea that you can't do it. This means you have to change your mind as well as your behavior. If you can identify your reason as something really ridiculous (everyone will walk out), then you can start to dig your way out of your negative thoughts. Take a look at what might disprove your thoughts. If you can't find something to speak about, then look at the needs of your target audience. You can even ask them what they would like to find out about. You will make fewer mistakes if you are thoroughly prepared and have rehearsed.

If all else fails, think about joining a Toastmaster's Group where you can get support and some practice speaking.

So, you have made up your mind that if other attorneys can do it, so can you. Where do you start? First, you will need to find an audience. This should be people in your "target market". That means people who have the ability to become clients, or people to refer to you. Also, you will want people (or a group) where you can get some publicity and help in branding yourself as a competent and knowledgeable attorney.

For instance, if you are a family law attorney, Marriage and Family Therapists (MFCCs) might be part of your target market. They often need to refer clients to family law attorneys. What do these therapists need to know about the law? Is it...