The strange thing about public speaking is that like swimming and riding a bike,  everyone can do it but very few believe that to be true.  It is the most feared activity that we can undertake, and many are turned into nervous wrecks by the mere thought of it. 

So how does it happen that on the second and last Tuesdays of every month, a growing group of people enthusiastically looks forward to visiting The Barn in Pondtail Road,  Horsham and for some two and a half hours engaging in that dreaded activity? 

The reason is they are members of the Horsham Speakers Club.  Affiliated to the National Association of Speakers Clubs, the Club is  dedicated to the task of helping people to acquire the skills and confidence, not only to speak in public, but to do it well.  They present prepared speeches of five to seven minutes, and even do impromptu speeches of two minutes, with virtually no notice at all of what the subject is that they will talk about. 

The members come from all backgrounds including local business owners, professionals and students.  They participate in a carefully structured programme of speeches, choosing how frequently they do them.  Each speech emphasises a particular aspect  of speaking-  body language, speech structure, humour and so on. The “Manual offers guidance on all these matters, and more. 

The backbone of the “Course”, is that every speech is publicly evaluated by an experienced member, who discusses both the favourable aspects and areas that can be improved.  This is supplemented by a brief, written appraisal, for future reference.. 

All members learn from one another in a friendly, comfortable and encouraging  atmosphere.  Many members, having come originally for work-related reasons, stay on because they enjoy the meetings so much. 

If you are interested in looking into this further, please telephone the Club’s Vice-President Barry Miles on 01903 246 546.