How to develop women in public speaking
Becoming a community leader requires women to speak up at local events, which can be daunting. While many lack confidence from early years, workplace experiences often help build these skills.
Developing women as public speakers involves several key strategies aimed at building confidence, enhancing skills, and providing supportive environments. Here are some effective approaches:
Workshops and Training Programmes
Organising workshops focused on public speaking can help women learn essential skills, from mastering body language to crafting engaging narratives. These programmes can include practice opportunities and constructive feedback.
Mentorship
Pairing aspiring speakers with experienced mentors can provide valuable guidance. Mentors can offer insights, share their experiences, and help navigate challenges in public speaking.
Creating Safe Spaces
Establishing supportive environments where women can practice speaking without judgment is crucial. This can be achieved through regular meetups or online/face to face forums. A great example of this is the Community Dialogue Practitioners Forum which encourages face to face and online dialogue with people from across the Good Relations and peacebuilding sphere. Another good example of this is Glencree Women’s Leadership programme where women from across the Island of Ireland come together to engage on a wide range of issues and in particular focusing on peacebuilding and reconciliation.
Encouraging Participation
Actively encouraging women to participate in speaking engagements, panel discussions, and community events helps them gain experience and visibility.
Highlighting Role Models
Showcasing successful female speakers can inspire others. Sharing their journeys and accomplishments can motivate women to pursue public speaking.
Skill Development
Focusing on specific skills such as storytelling, persuasive techniques, and audience engagement can equip women with tools to become effective speakers. Organisations such as the Junction, Derry/Londonderry and Healing Through Remembering can really support the development of this skill set.
Feedback and Reflection
Constructive feedback after speaking engagements allows women to reflect on their performances and identify areas for improvement.
Networking Opportunities
Connecting women with each other through networking events can provide support, encouragement, and collaborative speaking opportunities. By fostering a culture that encourages women to develop their public speaking abilities, we can empower them to share their voices confidently and effectively. These networks can be either local, regional, East West or Global, there are many examples of networks where women can engage with each other