Adventures in Public Speaking

"According to recent surveys, many people in America rank speaking in public as one of the greatest fears of their lives...In law enforcement, some officers compare dangerous incidents they encounter while on duty with standing in front of a group of strangers and giving a prepared presentation. A greater fear is having to speak in front of superiors and explain a procedure or specific occurrence without the benefit of preparation. This, coupled with the possibility of having to answer questions by an audience, can induce fear in even the most senior employees...Experienced public speakers can address nearly all of these issues and help make speaking to groups less intimidating. Although public speakers must accept certain fears, most individuals can overcome such fears through practice and commitment and from identifying their own particular weaknesses." (FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin) Tips for effective public speaking are presented.