I lead virtual (online) workshops pretty often. One of my favorites is called Public Speaking for Business: Choosing the Best Format for You to Connect, Teach, and Share Your Message. During that workshop, I explain why public speaking is essential for business growth, what all the speaking format options are, and how to determine which is best for each person.

Every time I lead that workshop, I am reminded of two things:

1. Everyone has unique expertise to share.

2. There is a speaking format for everyone (it's just not the same one for everyone).

Recently I hosted that workshop for a group of professional organizers. Every single one of them knows how to clear clutter. They know how to take a mess and turn it into a simplified system of productivity. They know how best to file, fold, pack, store, and ship.

But each one is unique.

Each one has a different background, upbringing, family life, and job. Each one has her own history and education. Each one has a different reason for organizing. One may clear clutter for cleanliness sake, while another may clear clutter to help someone overcome the loss of a loved one. Some deal with mindset issues while others teach practical skills.

They all are professional organizers, but they are each different and unique. Because of that, each one should choose the speaking format that best showcases her goals, skills, and preferences.

They all should use public speaking (at least to some degree) to build their businesses. Public speaking builds the know-like-trust factor that is necessary for sales faster than almost any other marketing tool. But because each person is different, each choice of speaking format will be different, too.

Types of speaking formats include:

• Keynotes, which are more of a one-way conversation and can be more formal

• In-person workshops, which are more of a 2-way conversation and interactive

• Teaching an in-person class, which is more of a one-way conversation but less formal

• Online workshops/webinars, which are interactive and have the benefit of not needing to leave home (hello, pajama pants!)

• Videos, which come with the added bonus of being editable (good-bye, mistakes!)

• Podcasts/podcast interviews, which are casual and conversational

Each one of those professional organizers will excel in one or more of the speaking formats listed above. They each should consider their overall goals for public speaking, preferences, prior speaking experience, and speaking skills when deciding which one(s) to choose. 

What's best for one may not be what's best for another. Some people shine in podcast interviews, where they don't have to memorize or practice a speech. Some people shine on stage, where the entertainer in them comes out and they inspire the audience. Some are excellent teachers who find their sweet spot teaching a class, creating a video tutorial, or hosting a webinar.

No speaking format is better than another. Each one establishes expertise, builds relationships, teaches skills, and inspires. Just choose the one that's best for you, your business, and your goals.

If you need help determining which one is best for you, or you aren't sure how to get started with public speaking, come join us in the Speaking Society. Our entire community is waiting to help you achieve your goals! Click here to check it out.