Public speaking is a form of communication that involves the act of talking to a group or crowd of people. It is a personal or one-on-one interaction between an individual and his audience. Public speaking is often used if one wants to inform, educate and persuade not only specific individuals, but a lot of people. It is a powerful tool when one wants to create awareness about certain matters and at the same time persuade people to do something.

That is why it is not uncommon to see authors using public speaking to promote their books and at the same time increase their following. Authors who use it effectively have a certain presence or appeal when they stand on the stage to deliver their message. They know how to talk and connect with their listeners and how to persuade them not only to buy their books, but to promote them as well.

Public speaking also gives authors the advantage of connecting directly to their audience who could become potential followers once they are convinced the author is worth following. It also gives authors the recognition they need to rise above the competition and become known. Aside from that, it gives authors another income source and the chance to travel to different locations. This means even more people to talk to, giving authors higher chances of increasing their following.

But how exactly do they use public speaking? Authors use it by attending conferences, book signings, book readings, book tours and other events that allow them to speak in front of a large audience. However, not all authors are successful at public speaking; in fact a lot of authors will get panic attacks just thinking about speaking in front of a crowd. And for these types of authors, training is needed. The reasons mentioned above show how important it is for an author to have public speaking skills, therefore every author should make an effort to gain this skill set.

Though gaining that kind of skill is easier said than done, it is not impossible. As an author trying to improve his communication skills you could try joining organizations like Toastmasters International. You could also start by attending speaking lectures or seminars or other events given by your fellow authors. Then observe how your fellow writers speak in public; you can even take note of the way they talk and try to emulate them. You could even try hiring a coach or a mentor who could give you a one-on-one lesson and at the same time help you track your progress. If you do not have the time, however, since your next speaking engagement is in the near future, you just need to remember these tips; open your mouth when you speak, maintain eye contact with your audience, avoid using fillers like “ah” and, most importantly, before you attend the event be prepared. Create a draft of what you are going to say and practice saying it in front of your mirror.