Why is it important to be a good speaker?

Learning public speaking skills can be important for advancing your career. Some positions may require you to speak to large groups in daily management, at occasional meetings or in front of conference groups. Here are some key benefits to improving your speaking skills:

Keeps your audience engaged

You might use your speaking skills to present information to a wide range of audiences, including colleagues, managers, investors, vendors and customers. You might adapt your tone and language to suit your specific audience and the information you’re giving them. Presenting that information in an engaging or even entertaining way can keep your audience’s attention. Speaking in an engaging way can be particularly important if you’re giving a long presentation, as it can ensure that your audience stays focused for the entire speech. 

Helps you transmit accurate information 

Depending on your job, you might present complex or highly technical information to a variety of audiences. Learning to speak clearly and confidently can ensure that your audience remembers your key points accurately, which can help them use the information later. For example, the principal of a high school might lead a parent meeting where they explain the county’s graduation requirements and describe the classes students might take each semester to graduate on time. Using a structured outline and clear talking points can help the principal present the information in a way that parents can remember.

Can improve collaboration 

Speaking well is important for team members as they collaborate on strategic projects. When a team communicates effectively, it can help build camaraderie and trust. For example, a customer service team might conduct a team-building exercise where team members roleplay common customer service situations and give each other feedback on their tactics. Good speaking skills can help you give your teammates advice while maintaining a positive relationship with them. Teammates might also use their speaking skills to present collaborative projects, brainstorm ideas and plan projects.

Can improve your management skills 

If you manage a team or department, you might lead meetings, make presentations to stakeholders or conduct training sessions. In these situations, the ability to speak clearly can ensure that your audience understands the information you’re sharing with them. For example, the manager of an IT team might lead training on a new software platform the company plans to adopt. Their ability to explain the product and the team’s role in the implementation process can help team members predict their workload during implementation.

Can motivate others

An effective speaker can use their tone and word choice to inspire certain emotions in their audience, like happiness or ambition. A manager or team leader might use their skills to encourage team members to meet or exceed their goals. Strong speaking skills can also let a manager present a confident image to their team members. When a manager is confident about their skills, it can increase their employees’ workplace satisfaction and improve their productivity. For example, a manager can use their speaking skills to lead a professional development session for sales representatives, motivating them to surpass their quotas.