Writers and Public Speaking

Me, third from left with other panelists at a convention

Have you been asked to serve on a panel at a conference or teach a workshop? Have you been invited to speak at a local meeting? Ever been interviewed on radio or tv? Done a book signing and reading? Have you talked to children in schools?

If so, do you enjoy speaking about your writing? Or, do you shudder at the thought? 

The photo today is of me and three other writers who served on a panel about blogging at a Kansas Authors Convention in 2019. It was great fun. All four of us have blogs, but each one has a different theme. Yet, the act of blogging is much the same. We each gave a presentation, and then we took turns answering questions from the audience. We all look like very ordinary people, but we had something to give to others at the convention.

Many people shy away from speaking in public. It gives them the jitters. They agonize over being in the spotlight. But guess what? Doing so is part of building your writer's platform. The writing is only the beginning. You must sell yourself to your readers and fellow writers. It's a way to enhance your name recognition. 

You needn't always wait to be asked. Volunteer to give a program at your church or a local organization you belong to. If you have had a book published, approach the local bookstore owner(s) and offer to have a book signing and reading. Many Chicken Soup for the Soul authors have signings for the book in which their story appears. Don't hesitate to ask, but don't do so timidly. 

You can start small by reading your work aloud at a writers' group. The people there are on your side, so there is nothing to be nervous about. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are going to be a speaker:

A.  Write the speech, then highlight the points you want to make.

B.  Practice in front of a mirror

C. You need not memorize word for word, but read what you have written multiple times so that just a paper with highlighted points on it will let you speak to each. 

D.  If you can speak 'off the cuff,' you're going to come across well

E.  Consider that the people in your audience have come to hear you, the expert. Keep in mind that you ARE the expert on your topic.

F.  Don't shy away from a tv interview. I have found that the tv personality puts you at ease. They do all they can to make you comfortable.

G.  If presenting a workshop at a meeting, offer to have attendees ask questions as you progress, or tell them there will be a Q&A at the end of your presentation. 

The first couple times you speak to an audience can be a bit nerve wracking, but the more you speak in public, the easier it becomes. In fact, it can be completely enjoyable.

Remember that it's to your benefit to tell others about your writing world, and you'll give them something to take away, as well.