Tell us about your experience with public speaking.

Corporate Reputation Strategist Interview Questions

Sample answer to the question

I have some experience with public speaking, mainly through university presentations and group projects. During my time as a communications major, I had several classes that required presentations as part of the coursework. I would prepare by researching the topic thoroughly and creating a well-structured outline. I would then practice the presentation multiple times to ensure I was comfortable with the content. While I haven't had the opportunity to speak at large conferences or events, I believe my experience in university has provided me with a good foundation for public speaking.

A more solid answer

Throughout my academic and professional career, I have gained significant experience in public speaking. As a communications major, I had numerous opportunities to present in front of both small and large audiences, including my classmates, professors, and industry professionals. One notable achievement was when I delivered a presentation on a marketing campaign I developed as part of a group project. The campaign was highly praised, and our presentation helped secure a partnership with a local business. In my previous role as a marketing assistant, I regularly presented our social media strategies to the team and clients. I was able to effectively communicate complex concepts and engage the audience through storytelling and visual aids. I believe my experience and ability to articulate ideas confidently make me well-suited for public speaking in this role.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides specific details about the candidate's achievements in public speaking, their ability to engage and communicate effectively, and how their experience is relevant to the job. However, it could be improved by mentioning any experience with public speaking at events or conferences.

An exceptional answer

Public speaking has been an integral part of my professional journey, and I have honed my skills through various experiences. During my time as a communications major, I participated in a public speaking competition where I had to deliver a persuasive speech in front of a panel of judges and a large audience. I won first place, which boosted my confidence and showcased my ability to captivate and persuade the audience effectively. Additionally, I have spoken at industry conferences, representing my previous organization and sharing insights on social media strategies. These opportunities allowed me to demonstrate my expertise, establish credibility, and network with professionals in the field. Furthermore, I have taken advanced public speaking courses where I refined my delivery techniques, learned to adapt to different audiences, and handle challenging questions with poise. I am excited to bring my extensive experience in public speaking to effectively represent and communicate on behalf of your organization.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates a high level of experience and achievement in public speaking. It goes beyond the previous answers by mentioning participation in a public speaking competition, speaking at industry conferences, and taking advanced public speaking courses. The answer also highlights the benefits of the candidate's experience, such as boosting confidence, establishing credibility, and networking. However, it could be further improved by linking these achievements to specific skills and qualities valued in the job description, such as strategic communication and collaboration.

How to prepare for this question

1. Practice, practice, practice: Take every opportunity to speak in front of an audience, whether it's in a classroom, at a local event, or during team meetings. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you'll become.
2. Seek feedback: Ask trusted friends, colleagues, or mentors to provide constructive feedback on your presentation skills. This will help you identify areas for improvement and refine your delivery.
3. Study successful speakers: Watch TED Talks or other professional speakers to observe their techniques, storytelling, and delivery. Take note of what resonates with you and incorporate those elements into your own presentations.
4. Prepare thoroughly: Research your topic extensively, organize your ideas in a logical manner, and create visual aids or slides to support your presentation. The more prepared you are, the smoother your delivery will be.
5. Adapt to different audiences: Practice tailoring your message to different types of listeners, considering their knowledge level, interests, and perspectives. This will help you connect with diverse audiences more effectively.
6. Manage anxiety: Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but there are strategies to manage anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and visualization can help calm nerves and boost confidence.
7. Embrace storytelling: Incorporate personal anecdotes or compelling stories into your presentations to make them more engaging and memorable. Storytelling is a powerful tool for capturing and holding audience attention.
8. Utilize visual aids: Use visuals such as slides, infographics, or videos to enhance your presentation. Visual aids can help reinforce key points, provide clarity, and make your content more visually appealing.
9. Be open to feedback: After each speaking engagement, reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Actively seek feedback from the audience or event organizers to continuously grow and refine your public speaking skills.
10. Stay up-to-date: Keep abreast of industry trends, current events, and relevant topics to ensure your presentations are timely and engaging. Incorporate recent examples or statistics to make your content more compelling.

What interviewers are evaluating

Experience with public speaking