Public speaking has been identified as a critical skill required for effective Public Relations practice, as practitioners are urged to approach the art with tact, confidence, professionalism and a strong understanding of protocol.
Chief Executive Officer of Docemo TV, Dr. Adewole Dosumu, made the submission while delivering a pep talk titled “Public Speaking: The Catalyst for Successful Public Relations Practice” at the September Business Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Ogun State Chapter, held virtually.
Dr. Dosumu, who is also a member of the Institute described public speaking as an essential component of professional and social interaction, noting that “anytime one stands to speak to more than three listeners, it is public speaking, explaining that public speaking cuts across different spheres, including social engagements, courtesy visits, formal or academic settings, business, religious gatherings, international engagements and cultural events.
According to him, effective public speaking goes beyond the ability to speak fluently, as the speaker must understand the occasion, audience, protocol and communication tools required to achieve the desired outcome, outlining the role of the moderators such events to include tone setting and determining the outcome of the engagement.
Stressing the need for presentations to be smart, short and simple, he charged them and other professionals involved in moderating events to be properly equipped with knowledge of protocol, good carriage and the right communication skills while also identifying approachability, friendliness, inclusiveness and accountability as important attributes of a good public speaker must possess.
Earlier, the Chairman of Ogun NIPR, Mrs. Oluwaseun Boye, rallied members of the Chapter to sustain active participation in its forthcoming professional and signature programmes, emphasising also the importance of stronger communication, networking and stakeholder engagement.
Welcoming all present to the virtual meeting, Boye expressed her appreciation for their continued trust, commitment and support for the Chapter, particularly acknowledging the new members, noting that their fresh perspectives and energy would further strengthen the professional family.
Speaking on the Chapter’s preparations for its forthcoming events particularly the Owanbe Nite Season 2 and the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), the Chapter Chairman encouraged members to remain actively involved in the preparations, stressing that, this will provide valuable opportunities for professional visibility, networking, stakeholder engagement and the advancement of Public Relations practice not only in the state but the country at large.
She highlighted the importance of members participation in the forthcoming World Public Relations Forum in Abuja, urging them to see the global gathering as an opportunity to showcase the cultural heritage of Ogun State, the strength in its diversity, its people, businesses and the growing influence of Public Relations practitioners in the state.
The September Business Meeting which provided an avenue for members to engage on the Chapter’s programmes, professional development and strategies for strengthening the visibility and impact of Ogun NIPR, ended with a renewed call for members to take ownership of the Chapter’s activities and contribute actively to its growth and development.
