Attorneys and Public Speaking: Shouldn't I Be Better at This?

If you've ever watched a legal drama on tv, then you probably got a vision of attorneys as always being confident, eloquent speakers who can command any room with ease. They certainly never feel nervous about having to speak in front of people, right? Otherwise, why would they have decided to become attorneys??

The reality, though, is that not all attorneys are naturally gifted public speakers (in fact, very few people are naturally mind-blowing public speakers...). This misconception about those who pursue the law can be a significant barrier and a constant source of stress, especially for those who find themselves struggling with public speaking. The truth is, many attorneys face difficulties in this area, and it’s not uncommon to feel embarrassed about asking for help. Here’s why public speaking can be a challenge for many in the legal profession and how you can overcome it.

The Misconception of Natural Talent

There’s a prevailing belief that attorneys are born with exceptional public speaking skills. After all, they’re trained to present arguments, negotiate deals, and advocate for their clients, so it seems logical to assume they should be naturally adept at speaking in public.

But, like many assumptions: it's a trap!

The ability to speak effectively in front of an audience is a skill that requires practice and refinement, just like any other professional skill.

Many attorneys, despite their legal expertise, struggle with public speaking because they haven’t had formal training or practice in this area. It’s not uncommon to feel self-conscious or even embarrassed about this, thinking that they should inherently know how to speak well in public. This can prevent them from seeking the help they need.

The Unique Challenges for Female Attorneys

Female attorneys often face additional hurdles when it comes to public speaking. Studies have shown that women in the legal profession may experience greater scrutiny and higher expectations, which can exacerbate their public speaking challenges. According to research reported annually by the National Association of Women Lawyers, female attorneys frequently encounter biases and barriers in their daily work National Association of Women Lawyers, 2022. Those extra hurdles can impact their confidence and presentation skills.

Women may feel more pressure to conform to expectations and avoid mistakes, which can heighten anxiety and hinder their ability to present authentically. Moreover, the need to prove oneself in a male-dominated field can make it even harder to seek help or admit to difficulties with public speaking.

Practical Solutions for Enhancing Public Speaking Skills

Recognizing that you need help with public speaking is the first step toward improvement. Here are some practical solutions to overcome these challenges:

• Practice Regularly: Public speaking is a skill that improves with practice. Take advantage of opportunities to speak in various settings, whether it’s at meetings, networking events, or presentations. The more you practice, the more comfortable and effective you’ll become.

• Join Public Speaking Groups: I'm not a huge fan of groups like Toastmasters (I'll probably write a blog post about why), but if you can find a group where you feel comfortable and accepted, you can practice speaking in a supportive environment and receive constructive feedback. Maybe you could get together with other women attorneys you know to improve your skills together?

• Focus on Preparation: Thorough preparation can alleviate anxiety. Know your material well, and practice your delivery to ensure you’re comfortable with your content and how you present it. (Need some help with this part? Check out my free "Attorney's Presentation Prep Toolkit"!)

• Work on Your Mindset: Building confidence involves changing your mindset. Use techniques like visualization and positive affirmations to foster a more confident and relaxed approach to public speaking.

• Seek Professional Coaching: Engaging with a public speaking coach can provide personalized guidance and support. As a public speaking coach and consultant, I offer tailored strategies to help attorneys develop confidence, enhance their speaking skills, and present authentically. With targeted coaching, you can overcome barriers and master the art of public speaking.

Conclusion

Public speaking is a skill that many attorneys, regardless of their expertise, need to develop and refine. It’s a misconception that all attorneys are naturally adept at public speaking, and the added pressures faced by female attorneys can make it even more challenging. However, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By investing in professional coaching, practicing regularly, and utilizing effective strategies, you can enhance your public speaking skills and present with confidence.

If you’re ready to transform your public speaking abilities and confidently command any room, I’m here to help. As a dedicated public speaking coach and consultant, I offer personalized support to help you achieve your goals and shine in every speaking scenario.