Meet Camilla
For this month’s Speaker Spotlight we had the opportunity to sit down with our member Camilla Hermansson. Camilla is an Operations Manager at Widerfunnel – an Internet marketing service in Vancouver, Canada.
Looking to improve her public speaking skills and step out of her comfort zone, Camilla participated in our 4-Part Public Speaking workshop where she garnered skills that she still uses in both her professional and personal life today.
You can read and/or watch her full interview below.
The Interview
Why did you register with Speak for Success?
I really wanted to increase my confidence at work. In my role, I have to do a lot of company-wide updates and every time I would feel really stressed and nervous about it and it would just cause a lot of anxiety. I would also avoid other speaking opportunities that I would get. So I realized I needed the tools and guidance to get over that fear, so I found Speak for Success.
What did you enjoy most about training with Speak for Success?
I think what I enjoyed most about the course was really just having that safe environment with a supportive group and a great facilitator giving me opportunities to help me practice my speaking. I also loved getting really helpful feedback not only on things that I could improve on, but things I was doing well that I didn’t think I was.
Where have you most improved as a Pubic Speaker?
Previously I would really focus on the speaking itself and just get really nervous about the fact that I was going to speak in front of a group. I’ve learned now to focus more on the content of what I’m going to be talking about and really understanding what is the key message I’m trying to convey. Just keeping that in mind has helped me feel more confident.
Do you struggle with feelings of nervousness and anxiety like Camilla? Sign-up for our Newsletter to join a supportive group of emerging leaders and receive complimentary tips, tricks, and templates to get you started on your public speaking journey?
What’s one technique you’ve learned and started using at work?
One of the techniques that I’ve found really helpful is not drawing attention to any of the mistakes that I make. I tend to get really nervous about it and if I make a mistake I feel like I’ve failed, just understanding that it’s okay, you’re human, and most people don’t really notice.
What would you say to someone who tends to get very nervous before a presentation or meeting?
You can learn anything there is to know about public speaking but you have to apply it through practice. It’s the best way to do it. So I recommend recording yourself, watching it, and asking friends or family for feedback. Just be kind to yourself!
What advice do you have for individuals who are just starting off on their public speaking journey?
You have to be willing to challenge yourself and make mistakes. Also, be patient it’s going to take time as with any new skill you’re developing – and again just practice.
Read also: 4 Techniques to Managing Avoidance Behaviour
Do you struggle with feelings of nervousness and anxiety like Camilla? Sign-up for our Newsletter to join a supportive group of emerging leaders and receive complimentary tips, tricks, and templates to get you started on your public speaking journey.
