In today’s ever-changing world, effective communication is the key to success. That is why it is more important than ever to empower our youths with the transformative skill of public speaking. Public speaking goes beyond simple presentation skills; it is about influencing others and fostering personal and professional growth. Research shows that about 70-80 percent of any population are afraid to speak. More so, 7 out of every 10 males and 8 out of 10 females are scared of public speaking. The fear of public speaking consequently has a 10 percent impairment on your wages and a 15 percent impairment on your promotion. This is why urgent attention needs to be paid in developing our Ghanaian youths with this global skill. Let’s explore why encouraging young individuals to develop public speaking skills is crucial for their future.
Firstly, public speaking nurtures essential abilities, such as communication and critical thinking. Through research, structuring arguments, and presenting coherent ideas, youths sharpen their analytical and logical thinking. These skills are invaluable, enabling better problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability in all aspects of life. They are useful for the academic and business world where all the by-products’ skills are essential.
Furthermore, public speaking builds self-confidence and empowers voices. It provides a platform for young individuals to express their ideas, share perspectives, and find their voice with conviction. By cultivating public speaking skills, we equip them with confidence, assertiveness and leadership qualities. You learn how to overcome fears and insecurities. This can be empowering. Your ability to connect and engage your audience reminds you of your valuable insights and opinions. These attributes are essential for navigating social and professional situations successfully.
Public speaking also unlocks a world of global opportunities, particularly in Ghana. Effective communication consistently ranks among the most sought-after skills by employers in various sectors. Cultivating strong public speaking skills gives Ghanaian youths a competitive edge in the job market. It is noted that one of the differences between a Ghanaian youth who grew up in Ghana and their counterparts in other countries is their speaking skills – ability to express themselves elaborately.
For example, during job interviews, candidates who can articulate ideas confidently and clearly leave a lasting impression on potential employers. In client presentations, the ability to engage and persuade becomes a powerful tool for showcasing expertise and securing business partnerships. Proficient public speaking skills directly impact income potential for individuals and organisations. In professions like sales, marketing, entrepreneurship, and public relations, persuasive communication and audience engagement are crucial for success. Strong public speaking skills pave the way for promotions, better salaries, and career excellence.
Moreover, public speaking opens doors to lucrative opportunities, such as speaking engagements, consulting gigs and brand partnerships, further enhancing one’s income potential. These can help the youth gain multiple streams of income. In Ghana’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape, effective pitching to investors increases the likelihood of securing funding. Additionally, entrepreneurs with strong communication skills confidently engage with clients, negotiate deals, and build fruitful partnerships, driving business growth and success.
Public speaking also offers opportunities for thought leadership and professional advancement in Ghana. Confidently addressing an audience allows youths to inspire and motivate others. By mastering the art of public speaking, they can rally support for causes they believe in, lead teams, and become influential voices in their communities. These leadership skills profoundly impact personal and professional growth, enhancing their professional reputation and opening doors to new opportunities.
In summary, the undeniable impact of public speaking on career development and income potential in Ghana cannot be understated. By honing their public speaking skills, Ghana’s youths will excel in job interviews, client presentations, and entrepreneurial endeavours. Effective communication positions them for success in a competitive job market and unlocks global opportunities. With enhanced employability, improved career prospects, and the potential for thought leadership, public speaking becomes a vital asset for Ghana’s youth in their journey toward personal and professional growth.
Jemima is a Public Speaking and Confidence Coach dedicated to building the next generation of great orators in Ghana while boosting the confidence of young people. Email: [email protected]
