Public speaking is one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional development. Yet, so many people turn down speaking opportunities due to fear, self-doubt, or the assumption that they’re not “ready.”

But here’s the truth: No one becomes a great speaker by avoiding opportunities to speak. Growth happens when you step up, say “yes,” and push yourself outside your comfort zone.

If you’ve been hesitating to take the mic—whether at work, an event, or even in casual settings—this article will show you how saying “yes” to public speaking can open doors, boost your confidence, and position you as a leader in your field.

The Power of Saying “Yes” to Speaking Opportunities

Every time you agree to speak—whether it’s a small meeting, a panel discussion, or a keynote—you’re investing in yourself. Public speaking isn’t just about the moment you’re on stage; it’s about the long-term benefits that compound over time.

1. It Strengthens Your Communication Skills

Speaking regularly forces you to articulate your thoughts clearly, structure your ideas effectively, and deliver them with confidence. The more you practice, the more refined and impactful your communication becomes.

👉 Actionable Tip: Record yourself practicing a speech or presentation. Watch it back and identify areas for improvement, such as pacing, clarity, and filler words.

2. It Increases Your Visibility and Credibility

When you share insights and expertise with an audience, people start recognizing you as an authority. Whether in your industry, company, or community, public speaking helps you stand out.

👉 Actionable Tip: If you want to position yourself as a thought leader, start small—contribute at team meetings, lead workshops, or post short speaking videos on LinkedIn.

3. It Opens Doors to New Opportunities

Speaking engagements often lead to unexpected opportunities, such as networking connections, job offers, or invitations to larger platforms. The more visible you are, the more chances you have to grow.

👉 Actionable Tip: Say “yes” to at least one speaking opportunity in the next month—whether it’s a meeting, a podcast interview, or a local event.

Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Many people hesitate to accept speaking opportunities because of fear. But fear is normal—it’s what you do with it that counts.

1. “I’m Not Good Enough Yet”

Many people think they need to be an expert or a polished speaker before they can say “yes” to public speaking. But the best way to improve is to start now.

✅ Reframe It: Instead of saying, “I’m not ready,” tell yourself, “Every time I speak, I get better.”

2. “What If I Mess Up?”

Everyone makes mistakes—even professional speakers. The key is to prepare, stay present, and keep going.

✅ Pro Tip: Have a recovery plan. If you forget what you were saying, take a deep breath, pause, and summarize your last point before continuing.

3. “I Get Too Nervous”

Nervousness is natural, but it doesn’t have to hold you back.

✅ Actionable Tip: Try power poses, deep breathing, or visualization before speaking to calm your nerves and boost confidence.

How to Find and Say “Yes” to More Speaking Opportunities

If you want to grow as a speaker, you need to actively seek out opportunities. Here are some ways to get started:

1. Volunteer to Speak at Work

Offer to lead a meeting, present a project update, or train a new team member. These low-pressure situations help you build confidence in a familiar environment.

2. Join a Speaking or Networking Group

Groups like Toastmasters or local business networking events provide a safe space to practice and improve.

3. Start Small with Social Media

If standing in front of a live audience feels daunting, start by sharing short videos or insights on LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube.

4. Pitch Yourself for Speaking Engagements

Look for conferences, podcasts, webinars, or panels in your industry and offer to share your expertise. You don’t need to be famous—just knowledgeable and willing to add value.

The Bottom Line: Growth Begins When You Say Yes

If you’ve been waiting for the “right moment” to start speaking, this is it. The more you say “yes,” the more skilled, confident, and influential you’ll become.

👉 Challenge: Within the next 30 days, commit to at least one speaking opportunity. Whether it’s a work meeting, a networking event, or even a live video—say yes and step up.

Want to Take Your Speaking to the Next Level?

Check out my book SpeakerSHIP for actionable tips to master public speaking.

This article was originally inspired by a LinkedIn post I wrote. You can read the original version here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/seize-every-opportunity-speak-art-saying-yes-growth-foland–qredc/