Communication Catch-Up

How a Public Speaking Club Helped One Project Manager Refine Skills

Article Skill Development 1 February 2017

PM Network

Smith, Ronald B.

How to cite this article:

Smith, R. B. (2017). Communication Catch-Up: How a Public Speaking Club Helped One Project Manager Refine Skills. PM Network, 31(2), 70.
In my 30 years of project management, I have found the majority of new project managers lack skills around giving presentations, conducting meetings and listening. This communication skills gap can be particularly large if the new project manager came from a role in a very technical area like databases or IT security. When I started my career, my own communication abilities were not up to the challenge either. To improve, I joined a Toastmasters International club. This global nonprofit organization helps members develop their speaking and leadership skills.
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