Speaking With Strengths

Some people seem like they were born to be amazing speakers… but here’s the truth: they’re just playing to their strengths. And by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to use your CliftonStrengths to do the same—so you can grab attention, connect with your audience, and actually enjoy public speaking.

In a minute, I’ll share how I went from being socially awkward—seriously, my college roommate once said talking to me was like pulling teeth—to speaking for Fortune 100 companies. But first, let me set the stage.

Back in high school, I wasn’t just awkward. I had what I call “anti-social skills.” If you talked to me, I probably made you run the other way. Later in life I would be diagnosed with Asperger’s. Think of those quirky TV characters like Shledon from The Big Bang Theory or Abed from Community—that’s me.

So yeah, not exactly the profile of a future public speaker.

Fast forward to today: I’m still awkward, I still miss social cues—but I’ve become a strong communicator by leaning into my CliftonStrengths® instead of trying to “fix” my weaknesses. For me, that is through Achiever®, Futuristic®, Competition®, Learner®, and Individualization®. Let me know if you want me to break down how I use each of these myself. 

Now, here’s the exciting part: you don’t need my exact strengths to become a better speaker. You’ve got your own unique talent mix, and when you learn how to apply them, public speaking becomes way more natural and way less scary. Who knows, you might even learn to enjoy it like I do now. 

After two decades coaching people with CliftonStrengths, I’ve put together this guide showing how all 34 talent themes can make you a more confident, engaging speaker.

Check out this FREE download that is a quick reference guide for all 34 talent themes to start using today! 

• Speak with your Strengths

Contact me for a complimentary consultation if you want to become a better public speaker through strengths. 

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