The Importance of Networking for Speakers

If you are looking to improve your public speaking skills, there is no better way to do so than to attend networking events. You might be wondering what networking events have to offer speakers. Networking involves meeting new people and learning to introduce yourself. For many, talking with strangers can be a source of anxiety. However, learning how to make small talk with new people is a great way to build your public speaking skills. If you are nervous about speaking in public, networking events are an excellent place to immerse yourself in conversation and focus on the way in which you communicate with others. These events provide you with plenty of opportunities to practice applying strategies of effective communication in a risk-free environment. Here are some of the many things speakers can learn from attending networking events. 

Learn How to Introduce Yourself

For many, one of the hardest and most awkward parts of public speaking is the introduction. It can feel uncomfortable to talk about yourself in front of an audience. That’s why networking events can be so beneficial for speakers. They give you the opportunity to practice introducing yourself to lots of new people. In time, you will become more comfortable with your introductions.

Learn How to Initiate Conversation

If you find it difficult to muster up the courage to talk to one stranger, imagine how you will feel when you have to address an entire audience of strangers. Strengthen your confidence as a speaker by becoming comfortable initiating conversations one person at a time. This trains you to become more comfortable speaking in front of people you don’t know. 

Learn to Become Familiar with Your Body Language

A speaker’s body language can have a huge impact on the way the audience perceives them. In fact, many people pay as much attention to body language as what the speaker is actually saying. Things like eye contact, power stance, and the way in which you hold your arms can affect your ability to speak with confidence. Many people find it difficult and uncomfortable to hold a powerful stance and make direct eye contact with others when speaking, so networking gives you the opportunity to practice these skills. 

Learn to Ask Questions

All too often speakers approach a presentation from a self-centric perspective and they forget that their job is to cater to the needs of their audience. Remember, an audience is wondering, “what’s in this for me?†When you network, you learn to ask questions and learn more about the other person as opposed to talking about yourself. This can train speakers to focus their perspectives on the audience.