Virtual Public Speaking

What you'll learn in this public speaking class:
Like it or not, we all need to do some type of public speaking in our careers and personal lives. Be it a toast at a friend or family member’s wedding, introducing a speaker at a company event, or delivering a report to your team or in a corporate town hall meeting, public speaking is an important communications tool that we are often tasked with. Yet, for most of us—public speaking is a dreaded event — and one that is avoided at all costs.

In today’s current environment, public speaking has become even more challenging, as we are tasked with delivering communications through Zoom and other digital platforms. Regardless, good communications skills are the foundation of success in personal and professional relationships, no matter what medium in which we choose to reach our audiences.

By joining us you’ll learn:
• How to manage fear of speaking
• How to engage the audience from the start
• Why practice makes perfect
• How to use empathy to resonate with the audience
• How storytelling creates the visual by taking the audience on a journey
• Why the oratory can be more compelling than other forms of communications
• How to learn to enjoy public speaking (Yes, it can be done!)

Key takeaways:
• How to deliver a compelling speech or talk — in person or on Zoom — or otherwise
• How to fight nerves during your delivery
• Understanding your audience and how to develop a compelling message that resonates
• Using body language and conveying confidence
• Feeling confidence before, during, and after delivery

About the Instructor:

I've been a professional musician for over thirteen years, mainly as a drummer with the Indie-Folk band Stornoway. Over the course of three chart-topping albums and numerous world tours, I've used the guitar as a key songwriting tool. In addition to touring and recording, I have taught a great number of students of all backgrounds and abilities to master this beautiful instrument to great success.

Materials Needed to Participate Fully:

• None

About the Instructor:

I've spent decades in the communications industry, principal of my own PR firm, professor in PR, Business Communications, Integrated Marketing at NYU, New Jersey University-School of Business, City College- NYC.

Virtual Class FAQ

What will be included in my Virtual Class package?

One ticket includes an access link to your live, online class. The class will be delivered via web conferencing software and feature a live, professional instructor who will walk you through a lesson as described above. You will have the opportunity to ask questions as well as participate from home.

How many people is my purchase good for?

Each ticket is good for one "device" (i.e. one computer, phone, tablet, etc. you'll be logging in from). This ensures we don't get more people in the class than the instructor can handle. Though we understand some people live together and will be working/learning together, the intent is that each class still allows for the same attention to attendees as if students purchased separately. Please be respectful of this!

Will I need anything from home to use in the class?

You will need a reliable Internet connection as well as a computer or device with which you can access your virtual class. We recommend you arrive to class 5-10 minutes early to ensure you're able to set up your device and connection. Additionally, if the class is more than just a lecture you will likely want any materials listed in the course description as "Materials Needed to Participate Fully", though you're welcome to purchase a seat and sit in and just watch.

Am I able to ask questions or interact with the class?

Yes, you'll both be able to ask questions using the chat function in the video hosting software as well as at certain intervals during the class via voice/audio. If the class winds up being on the smaller side, more spontaneous interaction/questions will be encouraged.


Do I have to show my video or speak during class?

While we recommend you do show your video and speak when encouraged to by the instructor, video and audio participation are never mandatory. We find classes have more fun experiences when people are engaging with one another, but understand not everyone will want to do so and that's ok!