One of the best ways to learn something is by teaching it to somebody else – as you might have discovered with your own learning. Use this with your team members as well, but encouraging them to teach each other. In other words, rather than them all being students, give them the chance to also be the teacher. There’s no better way for somebody to learn than to try teaching it to somebody else.
Giving your team members the opportunity to present also showcases them as leaders. As James Humes, who was Ronald Reagan’s speechwriter, said:
“Every time you have to speak, you are auditioning for leadership.”
People admire and respect competent presenters, and it’s one way to fast-track your team members’ careers. However, if they are new to presenting, it can be nerve-wracking and stressful. Here are some things you can do to make this easier for them.
Choose presenters carefully
This opportunity isn’t appropriate for everybody, so be careful in how you offer it.
First, give them all the opportunity. Explain the value of presentation skills and communication skills for their career (and personal life), and give everybody the chance to learn those skills.
But not everybody wants to be a presenter, so respect their choice and don’t force them into the limelight. You might push harder with some people because you can see potential they can’t see in themselves, but always give them the chance to decline.
