In your pre-assignment we asked you to start thinking about yourself and your experiences with speaking in public. You gave some ideas for becoming a better communicator. We have given ours below.

How do we get to be better communicators?

To make powerful, impressive, and lasting presentations, start from within.

• Talk to yourself. Clarify the message in your own mind before you try communicating it to someone else.
• Rehearse. Nothing clarifies your thoughts more than writing them down, and then saying them in different ways until you get them to where you want.
• Be very aware of the messages or inner tapes you are playing to yourself. Don't sabotage yourself by giving yourself negative messages about your ability to communicate, or about how the other person will take your message.
• Most of us are way too hard on ourselves. Plan what you will say and then be optimistic that it will come out right and be received well.
• Who is stopping you from being self-confident and self-reliant right now? I'm not stopping you. Have a look at any barriers you are putting up and make a decision to deal with them.
• When you speak to individuals, take the time to express yourself in an organized manner. Don't rush.
• Clarify. Ask for feedback. Do not assume that the message sent was the message received.
• Take part in all the activities we'll be doing today. When you take part, you are preparing yourself to be a leader, rather than a follower, in your workplace and your community. You are being a role model for your colleagues, your children, and those who look up to you in other ways.
• Know when to stop talking.