3 Ways to Earn More & Get Promoted with Public Speaking
George Kiorpelidis Jr ICF, DTM
Corporate leadership trainer and keynote speaker.
Public speaking and leadership are two fundamental skills that are pivotal in career advancement. In the corporate world, communicating effectively and leading others is desirable and necessary for those who aspire to climb the corporate ladder or run an entrepreneurial business.
As post-COVID-19 global markets become increasingly competitive and interconnected, the demand for leaders who can articulate vision, inspire teams, and drive results has never been higher. This article explores the importance of developing public speaking skills and leadership, drawing on insights from corporate leaders, statistical evidence, and the tangible benefits these skills can bring to one's career trajectory.
The Intersection of Public Speaking and Leadership
Public speaking and leadership are intrinsically linked. Leaders who can communicate effectively can articulate their vision, motivate teams, and inspire action.
As president and chief executive officer of Wells Fargo & Company, John Stumpf was one of the most influential figures in the banking industry. However, his intense fear of public speaking early in his career almost derailed his professional ascent. As Stumpf wrote in a 2015 essay for?Fortune?magazine, his boss at the time picked up on that fear. “He said, ‘You’ve got to fix this. If you can’t, that’s a career disabler.’”
So, in the mid-1980s, Stumpf joined Toastmasters. As a member of a club in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he transformed over a couple of years from a terrified speaker to a polished and confident one!
Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors of all time, echoed this idea, saying, " The most important investment you can make is in yourself." Buffett often emphasizes the importance of public speaking, even attributing much of his success to public speaking and communications courses like Toastmasters, which he took early in his career. He noted that mastering public speaking can increase an individual's value by as much as 50% immediately.
Effective public speaking allows leaders to convey their ideas clearly and persuasively, which is essential in making strategic decisions, negotiating deals, and leading teams. As a leader, the ability to speak confidently and compellingly in front of others can be the difference between gaining support for an initiative and seeing it falter. That is why public speaking is seen as a cornerstone of effective leadership.
The Impact of Public Speaking on Career Advancement
Numerous studies have shown that strong public speaking skills can significantly impact an individual's career advancement and salary potential. According to a Prezi and Harris Poll survey, 70% of employed Americans agree that presentation skills are critical to their career success. Furthermore, the survey revealed that those who are confident in their public speaking abilities are more likely to advance in their careers and achieve higher levels of success.
Another study by LinkedIn Learning found that communication is the number one soft skill employers seek, and it is extremely valuable for leadership roles. The study also highlighted that professionals who excel in communication are more likely to be promoted to leadership positions and are often considered for executive roles. This underscores the importance of public speaking as a tool for career progression.
Strong public speaking skills also have significant financial benefits. According to a LinkedIn Learning Workplace Learning Report , communication is the top soft skill employers seek from various industries. The report indicates that professionals who excel in communication, particularly in public speaking, are likelier to be promoted to leadership positions, which typically come with higher salaries. This is because effective communicators are seen as more competent, trustworthy, and capable of handling complex tasks and leading teams.
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Leadership and Its Role in Career Success
Leadership is another critical factor in career advancement. Leaders are not only responsible for guiding teams but also for setting the strategic direction of their organizations. The ability to lead effectively is highly valued in the corporate world, and those who demonstrate strong leadership skills are often fast-tracked for promotions and higher salaries.
Jack Welch, the former CEO of General Electric, once said, "Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others." This quote highlights the transition from individual contributor to leader and the responsibility that comes with it. Effective leadership requires the ability to guide and influence others and the capacity to inspire and develop future leaders within the organization.
A study by the Harvard Business Review found that companies with sophisticated leadership development programs have a 129% higher return on equity than those without. This is because effective leaders are better equipped to drive organizational performance, foster innovation, and navigate complex business challenges. As a result, organizations are willing to invest heavily in individuals who demonstrate strong leadership potential.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Job Outlook Survey : The NACE conducts annual surveys, and communication skills consistently rank as the most sought-after skills by employers. The survey results indicate that graduates with strong communication abilities are more likely to secure higher-paying jobs and advance rapidly in their careers.
Developing Public Speaking and Leadership Skills
Given the significant impact that public speaking and leadership can have on one's career, professionals must invest in developing these skills. Fortunately, numerous resources and strategies are available to help individuals improve in these areas.
The Bottom Line: Investing in Your Future
In today's competitive job market, professionals who excel in public speaking and leadership have a distinct advantage. These skills not only enhance an individual's ability to communicate and lead effectively but also open doors to new opportunities and higher levels of success. The data is clear: those who invest in developing their public speaking and leadership skills are more likely to achieve rapid career advancement and earn higher salaries.
As Simon Sinek, author and motivational speaker, famously said, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." This quote encapsulates the essence of leadership and the importance of communication in fostering trust, collaboration, and success. By honing these skills, professionals can position themselves as leaders in their field, ready to take on new challenges and drive their careers forward.
In conclusion, public speaking and leadership are not just skills to be acquired—they are investments in one's future. As the demands of the corporate world continue to evolve, those who can communicate effectively and lead with confidence will be the ones who rise to the top. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to take the next step, developing these skills can help you achieve your professional goals and unlock new opportunities for success.
Do you want to improve your sales, leadership, and confidence when speaking in front of an audience? Join me on August 28th, 2024, for a live networking event benefitting the Lakeshore Hospital Foundation. I'll present a mini-workshop on instantly improving your public speaking skills.
For more details on this event visit:
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