According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two? Does that seem right? To the average person that means that if they have to go to a funeral, they’d be better off in the casket than giving the eulogy.
—Jerry Seinfeld
Across age groups and different types of speaking arenas, many people fear being in front of an audience and trying to communicate effectively. Yet, employment eligibility and upward mobility for many criminal justice roles often require competent public speaking skills. As a speaker, you do not want your credibility and potential impact to suffer because of any nervous traits you might exhibit. Nor do you want to accidentally stumble over your words and inadvertently deliver inaccurate information. Working to overcome the fear of public speaking is therefore essential.
Post a short 250-word reflection on what you think of your communication, public speaking, and interviewing skills and how it applies to your professional career goals. How have your thoughts changed, if at all, throughout the course? Explain any fears or anxiety you may have, if any, related to public speaking. Finally, explain the techniques you have used or might begin to implement to address these fears.
