Why is it Important For Millennials to Have Public Speaking Skills?

Millennials typically have very specialized skills when it comes to technology, engagement in the workplace and interpersonal communication. However, there is one very important skill that this generation seems to lack. Public speaking is a rare skill for millennials, probably because they grew up with written mediums of texting, online chatting and one-on-one video chats with their close friends. Discover four reasons why millennials should learn to speak in front of large groups.

1. Business Edge

There are plenty of examples of how public speaking impacts millennials. Take to the internet to view TED talks or speeches at high-profile conventions that tout the latest products or high-tech gadgets, and watch concerts of millennial-aged pop stars. Communicating with large groups is essential for businesses, and millennials recognize that good public speaking skills create instant credibility among teams of co-workers, investors and customers. Speaking in front of an audience is crucial to get your points across during projects, as part of sales pitches or when collaborating with business partners.

2. Stand Out

Because millennials generally prefer to communicate through text messaging, public speaking makes younger workers stand out from the rest. This rare ability creates a perception that you have a skill an entire generation may lack. Younger workers need to realize they already speak in front of groups through technology such as YouTube or Facebook Live. The only difference is that younger people talk to a camera or computer screen rather than a large group of people in front of them.

Millennials usually love to receive instant and ongoing feedback to know they are doing well in the workplace. Ironically, public speaking in front of a mass of people is one way to do just that. The audience responds by laughing at your jokes, cheering at your success stories and applauding your inspirational ideas that move them to action.

3. Brand Recognition

Speaking to large groups can move a company's brand forward. Think about how Steve Jobs used his presentations at Apple to unveil the iPhone, iPod and iPad. Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg speaks to large crowds all of the time to explain how technology enhances everyone's lives. In the same way, you speak to the public to further your company's brand recognition, whether you're a manager or entrepreneur. This skill shows you have the potential for leadership positions.

4. Messaging Across Media

Talking to groups of people moves your message beyond live crowds. Developing this skill improves the videos you create for your business, and that expands your message to even more potential clients, customers and investors who view your online video content.

Public speaking is still an art form and a very important skill that helps create better overall brand awareness for companies thanks to leaders who convey messages to the masses. Brand awareness leads to better customer engagement, customer loyalty, consistent revenue streams and more stable profits for employers and businesses.

Photo courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net