What is that one common element in the lives of Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln and Nelson Mandela? No prizes for guessing! Yes, it’s the art of public speaking. All the above mentioned great leaders along with several others historical figures had mastered the art of public speaking. So, how exactly we define public speaking? It’s basically a process of addressing to a group of people in a planned and purposeful manner.
Public speaking aims to influence, entertain and inform the listeners. Public speaking is one of the most important aspects in the lives of students, corporate executives and leaders. Public speaking is an integral element in the spheres of leadership, customer service, motivational speeches, personality development, group communications, corporate gatherings etc. In some parts of America, it is also known as ‘Forensics’. The word forensic originated from the Latin word ‘forensis’ which implies ‘of the forum’.
The art of public speaking is made up of five basic elements of communication; who, what, whom, how and using what mediums! The scope of public speaking traverses through several layers of communication including, just informing the masses, to motivate people, or even story-telling sessions.
The art of public speaking has a strong element of changing perspective and emotions. In fact, emotion is an integral part of the art of public speaking. Most of the well known public speakers tend to strike the inner chord of the listeners. Public speaking is a very powerful tool with great influencing abilities.
Most of the careers require usage of public speaking skills and oration. It’s a great skill to have which can be used in any aspect of life. Interpersonal communication and public speaking go hand-in-hand. The art of public speaking thrives on its ability to engage public. Smart verbal communication coupled with proper usage of oratory makes for a wonderful piece of public speaking.