AIHM’s Executive Education short courses in professional development provide industry professionals the opportunity to upskill, to upgrade their knowledge and to put practical new tools and techniques into action as soon as they complete a two-day course. Taught by guest experts and AIHM’s own passionate faculty, our Executive Education courses tackle the most important topics and talents required to succeed in today’s hospitality industry and in fields beyond.
Learn more about how our Public Speaking short course, taught by AIHM’s own Samantha Lauver-Marion, can help you find your voice. Discover the details in the Q&A below and our Public Speaking course sneak preview.
Discover AIHM’s ‘Public Speaking’ Executive Education Course
Those who have been in my classes in the past will be able to recall the story I share at the very beginning of the course. I explain that I wasn’t always a self-assured public speaker. Far from it. In the past, I was quite nervous about speaking in front of audiences both large and small, so in 2017 I set a goal for myself to grow my confidence to speak in a variety of business settings.
As I developed my own public speaking skillset, I took advantage of the speaking opportunities that arose in my career. I’ve had a chance to speak during internal development programmes like NGT (New Generation of Talent) facilitated by Minor Hotels and in events hosted by AIHM. For example, I had the joy of being the Master of Ceremonies for AIHM’s first graduation ceremony earlier this year.
While I now have many hours of practice under my belt in this area, I still feel nervous when I step on stage in front of a group of people. What has changed is that I now have set of tools and tactics to overcome the nerves and thrive in a way I never would have imagined years ago. I share these tools and more during the Executive Education course on Public Speaking.
What will your students experience during your Public Speaking course?
Learners who join my class will be invited to slowly widen their comfort zones when it comes to public speaking. The comfort zone of each person is different so the tips that I share can be adapted by the learner depending on their previous experiences.
As an example, we’ll use a simple writing technique to put you at ease, helping you feel comfortable that your thoughts are well-formed and will be smooth sailing when you share. If you’re very new to public speaking, I ask that you share your questions on a post-it note and bring it to the board rather than first raising your hand. This trick allows the learner to consider their question or idea, noting it down on paper before being asked to share it. Learners who are comfortable raising their hand and speaking in a setting such as our class are still instructed to note down their questions on a post-it first and then verbally share what they would like to say. The reason for this is that when they’re in a situation that is new or unfamiliar to them, or a situation where they do feel anxious, they can use this technique as a small shift in behaviour to gain confidence in any situation.
How can students prepare for your class?
My class begins with a self-assessment for each learner. The assessment will help you understand your current speaking and listening skills so that you can develop them strategically during the weekend. By understanding where you are and focusing your attention on areas you can make real progress, you’ll be able to see big changes even during the short two-day course.
You don’t have to have experience in public speaking to join my class, but it is pivotal to come ready with a public speaking scenario you’d like to work on—whether a business presentation, interview with a potential employer, pitch to a potential client, or elevator talk with a perfect stranger. The approach for each scenario is slightly different, and I want to ensure that all our learners are achieving what they set out to do over the two days.
What if I am too nervous to do all of the activities?
Learners in my class will be invited to participate as much or as little as they would like to. Some students find filming themselves to be helpful in their development while others don’t want to listen to the sound of their own voice. The way you develop in my class is up to you. I’ll guide you in making the progress you need to at this point in time and will help you build the skills to continue to grow in the future.
While you will be invited to join all of the activities, there is no pressure to go beyond your comfort zone. If, after taking part in the Public Speaking class, you find that your confidence is developing and you’re ready to build on the skills you’ve been practicing, you’re invited to join the course for a second time. You can learn even more skills that you can apply right away in your workplace and personal life. Professional development is an ongoing process, and there’s always more you can learn.
The best students know themselves and want to overcome their challenges. If public speaking sounds like something you would like to learn but you are nervous to take this leap, then reach out to us today to discuss how we can best support you moving forward. Whether the ideal way to support you is through modifying some of the class activities or creating a private training experience at your place of business just for you and your immediate team, we’re happy to work with you to support your growth.
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Are you ready to become a confident and skilled public speaker?
Join the next session of the Public Speaking course. Register now.
