The ability to
speak with competence and poise in front of an audience is a powerful skill
that job seekers can use to increase their chances of landing the job of their
dreams. Here are a few tips on
improving your public speaking skills and using those skills to land a great
legal job:
- Change
the way you view “public speaking.”
Most people view public speaking as a situation where one person is
giving a speech to a group, usually on a stage. However, public speaking can be more than that. Public speaking skills can be used in
interviews, one-on-one interactions, over the phone and in just about any
situation where you need to verbally communicate ideas to another person. By
looking at public speaking this way you will be in the right “frame of mind”
when communicating with others.
- Become
knowledgeable about your field. As
a legal expert you should be able to converse about the latest trends, news and
happenings in the legal industry.
You should also have an opinion and be able to eloquently and tactfully
express than opinion to others. Employers want to hire candidates who are fully
engaged in the legal industry.
- Take
the opportunity to speak at events about the legal industry. Join panel discussions
or even give a workshop in your community to get practice. Placing yourself at
the “front of the room” will give your more visibility to employers.
- Raise
the volume. When speaking with
others at networking events or interviews, raise the volume of your voice just
a little to avoid speaking too low or mumbling your words. When speaking at a higher volume you
will mumble less, speak more clearly and exude a sense of competence.
- Use
a camera, audio recorder or an audience of peers for practice and feedback. Did
you make your point clearly? Did
you mumble? Were you speaking too low? Take notes and make any necessary
changes.