The Key to Communications Success: Lifelong Learning - Article

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The following article appeared in the October 2004 issue of Doing Business

Inspiring Leaders for Lifelong Learning

by Edward J. Barks

Accountants do it. So do doctors, auto mechanics, stock brokers, and IT workers.

What do all these occupations have in common? A commitment to lifelong learning. Continuing education is a necessity for survival in those fields and many more.

Yet it has always baffled me that people who speak in public, no matter their profession, studiously ignore the need for lifelong learning.

My frustration cup runneth over when I hear a client exit a presentation skills training workshop boasting that he has been "trained". I just shake my head and hope for the best, knowing that individual is not likely to persuade many audiences.

Polished presenters are dedicated lifelong learners. They realize the only way to sharpen their communications edge is to practice and learn over time. How do they go about learning?

If the stakes are relatively low when they speak, they might take advantage of passive methods like:

Books
Magazines
Online articles
Videos
Audio cds

These passive strategies are fine, up to a point. Many leaders, however, face pressure cooker situations when addressing their publics.

You may find yourself pitching an important client, explaining a new endeavor to the executive board, or delivering a speech before the National Press Club. When there's a lot riding on the outcome, the times dictate an active, hands-on learning strategy.

That means, as successful speakers know, the guidance of an experienced communications coach. The right coach can help you overcome the obstacles you face. After all, it is difficult to improve your speaking style if you don't know where to begin.

Of equal importance, he can help map out a constructive lifelong learning plan and help you execute it as part of a one-on-one coaching engagement.

In addition, your coach should be capable of steering your progress if your goals include graduating to large audiences or expanding your quotability to top shelf media outlets like The New York Times.

The people to whom you entrust your health, your money, and your car are in constant learning mode. So should you with your public speaking skills. Lifelong learning is the only route to improvement.

Ed Barks is a trainer, author, and speaker who teaches today's leaders how to work with the media. He has guided more than 2000 professionals toward a sharper message and enhanced communications skills. Visit Ed at www.barkscomm.com, where you can subscribe to his free monthly e-zine, Personal Trainer. He can be reached at (540) 955-0600 or at ebarks@barkscomm.com.

Ed Barks is a trainer, author, and speaker who teaches today's leaders how to deliver dynamic, message-packed presentations.

He can be reached at (540) 955-0600 or by e-mail.

© Barks Communications 2004

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