AAC F A M I L Y F R I E N D S » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » Public speaking is a necessity for county officials
It’s the last thing on earth that many want to do. During my years of maturing in public office when I was faced with that fear I liked to tell myself: “I don’t feel like it, I don’t want to – but I’m going to do it anyway.” Tere is something about recognizing our lack of motivation and then choosing to be responsible that helps us fol- low through. We have an important county message to share – both to the public and in testimony before legislative committees! For the past 45 years the Association of Arkansas Counties has served as the statewide official voice for Arkansas county government. But, you – the county elected officials are the voice for county government in your county and many times during legislative sessions. Tat’s why it is so important for county officials to take every opportunity given or even make your own opportunity to spread the “county message.” We need more county officials willing to go to the podium and “pro- claim the message.” County government has a great cause and a great message to tell. And when people understand what county government does and how it relates to them they are more willing to help. Many times elected officials find themselves wanting to take the back seat and let someone else drive because of fear of taking the political risk of getting behind the wheel and taking the lead. If you find yourself thinking that way try to keep in mind the words of William Penn, an early champion of democracy and religious freedom. Mr. Penn said, “Right is right, even if everyone is against it, and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it.” Tere is always a tactful approach even for the most controversial issues. As a county leader – you need to step forward. Many of you probably feel that you are not capable of conveying your thoughts in a manner that would achieve the results you desire. Te fact is, you will improve with practice – but you have to start first. Someone once made the profound statement, “It’s not what you say but how you say it.” And there’s a lot of truth to it. Until you get better at the “what” at least be good at the “how.” Be passionate about county government. Of course, we should be good at the “what,” too. I believe in the
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importance of researching the subject and then clearly and precisely making the point when the opportunity presents itself. Being a county official affords you the privilege to speak at many programs and func- tions – and even before legislative committees. Each opportunity to speak gives you the chance to get better at the art of public speaking. I have had many opportunities to hone my speaking skills. Although I studied speech and public speaking in school; completed communica- tion skills classes; spent 30 years in broadcasting interacting with a radio audience; and have given dozens of speeches during my 32 years in county government - I am rarely satisfied with my presentation. Tere are always three speeches for every one you actually gave. Te one you practiced, the one you gave, and the one you wish you gave. I want to learn how to better present county government. I want to be clear and concise. How about you? You are strong and confident in other areas of your life, and you can
be strong and confident as a speaker, too. You can develop skills and even learn to have fun giving engaging presentations on county govern-
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peech is power; speech is to persuade; to convert, to compel – so said Ralph Waldo Emerson many years ago. Public speaking is looked upon with dreadful fear by the vast majority – even those who really need to use the medium.
Seems To Me...
ment that inform, motivate and yes - even entertain. Inspirational author Barry Neil Kaufman once wrote, “A loud voice cannot compete with a clear voice.” Our success in county government does not depend on what we say or how often we say it, but rather on what our people and our legislators hear. Public speaking is vital for county officials. Being an effective public speaker No doubt your ability to communi- cate more effectively will be enhanced if you know how to gather and organize information for your speech; if you learn the proper structure of a presentation; how to improve your vocal variety; how to gesture more effectively; proper body movement, facial expressions, eye contact and walking patterns; how to handle questions; and maybe as important as anything – overcom- ing speaker anxiety. Tat’s quite a list – and yes, there is a lot to learn to be a good and effective public speaker. But, you have to start if you ever want to arrive. It is a common misconception that certain people are born good speakers. Yes, some people have a gift of gab and seem natural at it. But make no mistake: Becoming a confident public speaker is achieved only by the desire to become a better speaker, followed by focused effort and a lot of practice. Professional speakers never stop practicing and honing their speaking
Eddie A. Jones Guest Writer
skills. If you are like most people, you did not have a great first-time public speaking experience, and the thought of speaking in front of people scares you to death. Well, according to the Book of Lists, public speaking is the greatest of all fears – No. 1 on the list! Te fear of dying is number seven on the list. So, apparently most people would rather die than get up in front of a group of people to speak. If you feel this way, you’re not alone. Many professional speakers and famous presenters will freely admit to nervousness and stage fright. In fact, you need just a bit of “nervousness” to be your best – to keep you sharp and on your toes. But you have to be in control – not your nerves. Learning specific techniques to improve your public speaking can help eradicate your fear and help you succeed. Here are some proven tips on how to control your butterflies and give better presentations: 1. Know your material. Know more about your subject than you include in your speech or presentation – over prepare. You may need the additional information if you open up for questions and answers. Not only should you know your material – but convey the material in an interesting way so that people retain some of what you said. Tree ways to do that is use conversational language (it flows better), use humor and personal stories. Well executed humor and stories hold the power to deliver messages in an entertaining fashion and can jolt us into seeing things from a broader perspective. It can even enliven dull topics, diffuse tense situations and help the speaker connect with the audience. Once you get people laughing they’re listening and you can sell your message. Just make sure your humor and stories are appropriate.
COUNTY LINES, WINTER 2013
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