Someone recently wrote this comment on my blog:
Sometimes i wonder how the culture of confidence (or outspokeness as some visitors like to call it) in the U.S. can become debilitating to shy or introverted people. Confidence does not come naturally to some people, and instead of condemning them, perhaps suggest ways of self-development?
I talk a lot on this blog about how more nonprofit leaders, especially young people, should be sharing their ideas and innovation to help move organizations forward. Now is not the time to be quiet if we have ways to improve the way we do the work of social change. But we have to recognize that we do need to build up the kind of skills and confidence to help us do what leaders do: speak up! There is too much at stake for us not to. Below are some ideas that might help you build your own speaking skills as you move from entry level to leadership.
Volunteer to Speak at an Event or Conference
My very first speaking engagement was as a panelist for the Who’s Got Next? Addressing the Leadership Crisis Among African-American Organizations. I looked at the current speaker list, and realized that there were no young nonprofit leaders slated to talk about our experience. So I emailed the conference organizer with my bio, we followed up with a phone conversation, and they added me to the panel. Don’t wait for someone to ask you to participate in an event or conference; the first step may be you reaching out to them. It’s great exposure, and you get the chance to share your ideas with a captive audience. Be sure to keep a good bio handy for when you see an opportunity to volunteer your time and expertise.
Sign Up for Open Mic Poetry, Storytelling or Comedy Night
Many of you know that I am both a writer and a poet. Sometimes I also read my work in public, which is a great opportunity for me to speak in front of a crowd of people with low pressure. You get to practice your tone, timing, and see the audience react to you all at once. You can then transfer these skills to the boardroom or in meetings at your organization. Many venues also have open mic nights for storytelling or comedy, which are also great opportunities. Most cities have cafes or restaurants that host these types of gatherings, so just check the entertainment section of your local paper.
Start a Blog
Putting your ideas out there on the big ‘ol Internet is scary for many young nonprofit professionals, but if you have something to say, it’s a great way to get your voice out there. And people will respect you for it. Ask any blogger, and they will tell you that your reputation as a leader will soar once people see that you aren’t hesitant to say what needs to be said. Once people (your readers) start to validate you, then others start listening. No matter what your age, people respect an expert. Starting a blog is the very best thing I’ve ever done for my career. Blogging has led to consulting opportunities, speaking engagements, and my part-time job as a professor. My older colleagues see me and respect my opinion. I’m also perceived as more valuable now to the organization I currently work for. Start simple by blogging about your passion, and you never know what will happen. Check out these young bloggers, many of whom have become thought leaders in the field through their commentary.
Be an Advocate
The economic crisis and its effect on nonprofits offers a myriad of timely opportunities to advocate for funding and policies related to the sustainability of the sector. Just because you are not a CEO doesn’t mean you have to stay behind your desk. Go testify to your local government officials about legislation that would affect your organization or your clients. Volunteer to assist your advocacy director, if your organization has one. Write letters to your state representatives to show your support or opposition to policies that affect your cause. The Council of Nonprofits is doing a great job of monitoring legislation affecting nonprofits and helping to mobiize us to speak up where it really matters.
What else have YOU done to learn how to speak up?
