Lecture on Speaking with Confidence, Clarity, and Fluency

Introduction

• Speaker: Annemarie, English confidence and fluency coach
• Context: Sharing personal experience with gaining confidence in speaking, both in native and second languages
• Objective: Dispel myths about fluency and confidence and provide practical steps to improve them

Key Myths and Realities

Myth 1: Some People are Naturally Confident Speakers

• Belief: Extroverts are inherently confident when speaking
• Reality: Confidence can be developed, and introverts can be confident speakers
• Advice:
  • Use time to think before speaking, especially in new situations
  • Practice in advance by preparing notes and talking through them
  • Utilize pauses to buy time and organize thoughts
  • Use phrases like "Give me a moment to think"

Myth 2: Fluent English is Always Fast English

• Belief: Speaking fast equates to fluency
• Reality: Fluency is about smooth, natural, clear communication with control
• Advice:
  • Aim for clarity over speed
  • Use pauses for breathing, organizing thoughts, and emphasis
  • Learn from skilled public speakers who use pauses effectively

Myth 3: Confident Speakers Never Seek Clarification

• Belief: Asking for clarification shows weakness
• Reality: Seeking clarification shows engagement and active listening
• Advice:
  • Practice using clarification phrases
  • Example Phrases:
    • "Sorry, I didn’t quite catch that. Could you repeat it?"
    • "Can you give me an example of what you mean by...?"
    • "Could you explain what you mean by...?"

Myth 4: Confident Speakers Don’t Experience Setbacks

• Belief: They don’t make mistakes or fumble their words
• Reality: Mistakes are natural, even for skilled communicators
• Advice:
  • Practice in safe environments
  • Pause, take a deep breath, and regain control
  • Use corrective phrases to clarify or correct mistakes
  • Make it safe to practice regularly to learn overcoming mistakes

Myth 5: You Either Have Confidence or You Don’t

• Belief: Confidence is an inherent trait
• Reality: Confidence is developed through practice and exposure
• Advice:
  • Follow the Confidence Learning Cycle: Learn -> Action -> Ability -> Self-belief -> Confidence -> Motivation -> Continued Learning
  • Take consistent action to build confidence

Practical Steps to Building Confidence and Fluency

1. Download training: "How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English"
2. Join speaking communities: Online or in-person meetups
3. Volunteer or join clubs: Book clubs, volunteer organizations
4. Find a language coach: Regular speaking practice sessions
5. Partner up: Practice with a coworker or neighbor
6. Engage with media: Listen to podcasts or TED Talks and practice summarizing
7. Self-talk: Practice speaking out loud when alone
8. Join speaking organizations: Toastmasters or similar groups

Conclusion

• Encouragement: Take small steps, expand your comfort zone, and find supportive communities
• Action Step: Identify one action step to take this week
• Engagement: Share progress and join the Speak Confident English community for ongoing support

Additional Resources

• Website: Speak Confident English website for resources and lessons
• Training: Step-by-step training on building confidence and fluency
• Videos: YouTube Channel for weekly lessons