Loud And Clear

The art of clever communication is essential to workplace success. Here, authors Viv Groskop and Bobette Buster share their secrets to owning any room.

- Liz Villabona

HOW TO TALK

‘Women don’t need to find a voice. They have a voice: they need to feel empowered to use it, and people need to be encouraged to listen,’ said the Duchess of Sussex and the woman behind that memorable UN Women speech. Whether you’re aiming to become the next TEDx Talker, or just want to be less terrified about speaking up in meetings, Viv Groskop, comedian and author of How To Own The Room: Women And The Art Of Brilliant

Speaking, says, ‘Let’s not pretend public speaking is easy – even confident people have days when they’re tired, overworked or vulnerable. But you can push through by taking yourself aside to breathe, focus and fool your body into feeling relaxed. Another method is exposure – do it as often as you can.’ Here’s how to talk smarter.

1. BE AUTHENTIC

Examine other people who inspire you and you’ll find that no two people do the same thing. Angela Merkel often pushes her point home by using extreme stillness during speeches – her head and body never move, and she holds her fingers in a temple position, like Mr Burns from The Simpsons. This gives her power and authority, but for others it would look fake. Compare that with Oprah Winfrey, whose natural instinct is to be informal and use her charisma. Find your own natural style.

2. LISTEN TO YOURSELF

Sometimes we have an idea in our heads of how we’re coming across, but when we speak to others we realise that’s not true. However excruciating it is, watch videos of yourself or rehearse a presentation on camera and get feedback from people you trust. In my stand-up comedy, I’ve learned to adapt to different crowds – a drunk audience might require more authority than a relaxed one. Similarly, in the workplace, read the room before you speak.