Here's how you can maximize the benefits of attending public speaking workshops and seminars.

Active listening means listening with intent and responding with appropriate non-verbal gestures. However, it works only when the matter of workshop connects with the audience emotionally. Focus on collaborative listening. It is the highest level of active listening during the communication. One is willing to learn the new things and want to take the input from others. Therefore, focus to participate in active and collaborative listening. Concentrate on learning a new perspective which resonates with you. Note down the important key points of workshop. Ask open ended, quality & relatable questions to show your interest in the conversation. During active listening pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal modes of communication.

Public speaking workshops and seminars are goldmines for anyone who wants to elevate their communication skills. But simply attending isn't enough. To truly reap the benefits, active participation is key. During the event, take Smart Notes. Don't just jot down everything. Focus on key takeaways, actionable tips, and techniques. Use bullet points, mind maps, or whatever works! By being an active listener, you not only retain information better but also gain a deeper understanding of the concepts presented.

If I want to use the skills I learnt from attending other workshops to hone my own skills, I would practice diligently. First, I would find a Practice Partner. I would ask a friend, colleague, or family member to listen to my practice speech and provide feedback. Then I record myself again to repeat the practice-record-review cycle, incorporating the feedback I have received. I find that the more I practice, the more comfortable and confident l become when speaking in public.

Maximize public speaking workshops by practicing immediately. These sessions offer a safe space to try new techniques without real-world pressure. Volunteer for exercises and seek extra practice time. The more you practice in this environment, the more comfortable you'll be with the material, making it easier to apply in high-stakes situations.

Feedback is a key benefit of workshops. Actively seek constructive criticism from instructors and peers. Ask specific questions for actionable insights. Use this feedback to refine your speaking style. Embrace every piece of advice as a chance to grow and improve.

To me, feedback is a powerful tool for growth. Here's how I leverage it: 1/ I request feedback from the trainer. Most workshops offer opportunities for one-on-one feedback with the trainer. I ask specific questions and seek guidance on areas I want to improve. 2/ I seek feedback from peers or fellow attendees. Their perspective can be invaluable. 3/ I also offer constructive feedback when others share their presentations. I actively listen and offer constructive feedback. Giving and receiving feedback creates a supportive learning environment and helps everyone refine their skills.

A workshop is a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Typically, I would introduce myself and mingle during breaks. I also share my goals and interests related to public speaking. After that, I would connect on LinkedIn or exchange email addresses to stay in touch and continue the conversation after the workshop. Lastly, I look for people with similar goals or challenges. Building relationships can lead to future collaborations, learning opportunities, and even new job prospects.

- After each session, identify one or two key takeaways that resonate most with your current needs and focus on integrating them into your practice. - Start small by applying these techniques in low-stakes environments, such as team meetings or informal presentations, to build confidence and refine your approach. - Gradually incorporate more complex skills as you become comfortable, continuously seeking feedback to guide your improvement. This step-by-step implementation allows you to develop your public speaking abilities systematically, ensuring that each new skill is well-mastered before moving on to the next.

Paying for coaching, online courses, workshops etc. is a waste of money if you don't take the time to reflect. Powering through self-help books at a fast pace without taking the time to reflect on what you've learned and how you'll implement it means much of your time is wasted and not directed towards getting better or achieving your goal. If you want to become a better speaker and you attend a seminar or workshop, block time afterwards to think about what you learned, reflect on the sessions, write down notes and thoughts, and practice where possible. Taking action is important and every small step contributes to maximising the return on your investment in your improvement.