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Books for Writers #6
Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives and Other Introverts
As creatives in a crowded world, we can no longer sit in our rooms, creating alone, if we want a viable income. Increasingly, we have to be out there in the world, sharing our knowledge and being visible in order to have a successful career.
*** Public speaking can be an extra income stream, or can form an integral part of your marketing ***
It's also a good idea to plan for success and authors/creatives often have to speak when they become well-known, so it's best to start practicing earlier.
This book is a starter pack and an easy reference guide with the information that you need the most to speak confidently and professionally in public. And, although some chapters have specific tips for introverts, much of this information will be useful for anyone who is interested in public speaking, regardless of their personality type.
In this book, I'll share everything that I know as a professional speaker and introverted author-entrepreneur. It contains lots of tips about public speaking in general, based on my own experience over the last five years.
In addition, I cover some specific points that creative introverts need to consider as speakers.
You can read this book from start to finish, but you can also dip in and out, as each chapter contains succinct tips that you'll need at different times on your journey.
Part 1 goes into the practicalities of speaking: types of speaking, preparation, your actual talk, and what happens afterwards.
Part 2 is about some of the psychological aspects of speaking: your mindset, authenticity, confidence, and tackling the inevitable anxiety, which we all feel.
Part 3 discusses the business side of speaking: financials, marketing, and how to create multiple streams of income.
Part 4 contains interviews with three fantastic professional speakers, each from a different market, to give you a variation in perspective. Mark McGuinness is an introvert, Clare Edwards is an extrovert and Alastair Humphreys sits somewhere in the middle. There are also videos, audio and extra image-formatted transcripts, so you can experience this information in other modes if you prefer.
The Appendices contain resources that may be useful in your speaking journey, including my own speaking checklist and booking form, example sales page and a series of questions for you to answer that will kickstart your public speaking.
*** Public speaking can be an extra income stream, or can form an integral part of your marketing ***
It's also a good idea to plan for success and authors/creatives often have to speak when they become well-known, so it's best to start practicing earlier.
This book is a starter pack and an easy reference guide with the information that you need the most to speak confidently and professionally in public. And, although some chapters have specific tips for introverts, much of this information will be useful for anyone who is interested in public speaking, regardless of their personality type.
In this book, I'll share everything that I know as a professional speaker and introverted author-entrepreneur. It contains lots of tips about public speaking in general, based on my own experience over the last five years.
In addition, I cover some specific points that creative introverts need to consider as speakers.
You can read this book from start to finish, but you can also dip in and out, as each chapter contains succinct tips that you'll need at different times on your journey.
Part 1 goes into the practicalities of speaking: types of speaking, preparation, your actual talk, and what happens afterwards.
Part 2 is about some of the psychological aspects of speaking: your mindset, authenticity, confidence, and tackling the inevitable anxiety, which we all feel.
Part 3 discusses the business side of speaking: financials, marketing, and how to create multiple streams of income.
Part 4 contains interviews with three fantastic professional speakers, each from a different market, to give you a variation in perspective. Mark McGuinness is an introvert, Clare Edwards is an extrovert and Alastair Humphreys sits somewhere in the middle. There are also videos, audio and extra image-formatted transcripts, so you can experience this information in other modes if you prefer.
The Appendices contain resources that may be useful in your speaking journey, including my own speaking checklist and booking form, example sales page and a series of questions for you to answer that will kickstart your public speaking.
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2014
58 people are currently reading
1820 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Penn
41 books1,230 followersJoanna Penn writes non-fiction for authors and is an award-winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling fiction and memoir author as J.F. Penn.
She’s also an award-winning podcaster, creative entrepreneur, and international professional speaker. She lives in Bath, England with her husband and two British shorthair cats, and enjoys a nice G&T.
See also Goodreads author's profile as J.F. Penn.
She’s also an award-winning podcaster, creative entrepreneur, and international professional speaker. She lives in Bath, England with her husband and two British shorthair cats, and enjoys a nice G&T.
See also Goodreads author's profile as J.F. Penn.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 1, 2015
This book was exactly what I needed when I needed it. I’ve long been a fan of Joanna and her Creative Penn website. It’s my go-to resource for industry news and marketing inspiration. So I knew I’d be in good hands with this book, but I didn’t realize quite *how* good!
It is such a pleasure to read a speaking book from an adamantly introverted viewpoint. Joanna is selflessly candid, as always, about her own struggles, fears, and methods for conquering both. She offers straight-up, comprehensive advice on everything from the speaking itself, to preparing presentations, to what to wear, to how to manage nerves and energy before, during, and after the event. She also includes chapters on marketing, which will already be familiar to anyone who has her read her book on that subject.
Overall, it answered every single question I had on the topic and reinforced good knowledge I already possessed. Loved and appreciated every minute of it, and I totally recommend it.
It is such a pleasure to read a speaking book from an adamantly introverted viewpoint. Joanna is selflessly candid, as always, about her own struggles, fears, and methods for conquering both. She offers straight-up, comprehensive advice on everything from the speaking itself, to preparing presentations, to what to wear, to how to manage nerves and energy before, during, and after the event. She also includes chapters on marketing, which will already be familiar to anyone who has her read her book on that subject.
Overall, it answered every single question I had on the topic and reinforced good knowledge I already possessed. Loved and appreciated every minute of it, and I totally recommend it.
January 9, 2014
One thing you can always be assured of when reading a non-fiction ‘how to…’ book for writers written by Joanna is that a) it’s based on her personal experience, b) it’s written with passion from the heart and c) the information is trustworthy as she knows it. ‘Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives and Other Introverts’ is no different.
In the UK we are very bad a public speaking in general. If you look across the pond, our American cousins appear to be better prepared for the task, with speaking to groups being an integral part of their school curriculum. These days many businesses require you to get up on your feet and share with co-workers. Public speaking is becoming an essential skill for anyone wanting career progression not just writers adding another revenue stream to their bow. This book, repurposed, has a much wider audience.
Joanna tackles this subject in four parts: the practicalities of speaking; the psychological aspects on you the speaker, of having to stand up in front of a group; the business side of speaking to turn it into a revenue stream; and finally, to underline her assertions / advice/ hints and tips she shares the experiences of three professional speakers. And as an eBook, it comes with extensive additional multi-media content to dip into as and when. The whole book itself is a resource which can be cherry-picked depending on where you are with your speaking career.
If I had one criticism to make, it is that Joanna has included too much content! Like most (all) subjects they cross-over into other areas and where to draw the line is sometimes difficult to decide. This is a very inclusive book but it could be streamlined to stay on message. However, don’t let this put you off. The extra content is create – if you know Joanna’s work already, some of it you will have seen before.
In conclusion, this book is like a presentation skills course on steroids; very well worth the money and time to read it. Then of course it’s over to you to implement the mass of ideas, tips, advice, insights etc. contained herein. And that’s the tricky part: no matter how many books you read on dieting, they won’t make you thin. It’s all down to taking action.
In the UK we are very bad a public speaking in general. If you look across the pond, our American cousins appear to be better prepared for the task, with speaking to groups being an integral part of their school curriculum. These days many businesses require you to get up on your feet and share with co-workers. Public speaking is becoming an essential skill for anyone wanting career progression not just writers adding another revenue stream to their bow. This book, repurposed, has a much wider audience.
Joanna tackles this subject in four parts: the practicalities of speaking; the psychological aspects on you the speaker, of having to stand up in front of a group; the business side of speaking to turn it into a revenue stream; and finally, to underline her assertions / advice/ hints and tips she shares the experiences of three professional speakers. And as an eBook, it comes with extensive additional multi-media content to dip into as and when. The whole book itself is a resource which can be cherry-picked depending on where you are with your speaking career.
If I had one criticism to make, it is that Joanna has included too much content! Like most (all) subjects they cross-over into other areas and where to draw the line is sometimes difficult to decide. This is a very inclusive book but it could be streamlined to stay on message. However, don’t let this put you off. The extra content is create – if you know Joanna’s work already, some of it you will have seen before.
In conclusion, this book is like a presentation skills course on steroids; very well worth the money and time to read it. Then of course it’s over to you to implement the mass of ideas, tips, advice, insights etc. contained herein. And that’s the tricky part: no matter how many books you read on dieting, they won’t make you thin. It’s all down to taking action.
January 15, 2014
I'm reasonably experienced at making public presentations, thanks to a long career in PR involving lots of client pitches and the occasional public address. I've organised quite a few too, as I used to run a public lecture series at a nearby private school. And I've seen far too many bad public speeches by senior execs who really should have known better than administer that well-known torture technique, death by powerpoint!
With a number of speaking engagements of my own already in my diary for 2014, I was very pleased to be offered a free copy of this book in return for an honest review. Knowing of Joanna Penn's reputation as a public speaker and author, I was eager to read it.
I was surprised to find that Joanna, and many other respected public speakers are actually introverts - a bit like Laurence Olivier and other top actors being crippled with stage-fright, I suppose. On Joanna's recommendation early in the book, I took a free Myers-Briggs style test to find out whether, as an author, I was one too. I discovered (not entirely to my surprise) that I am very much an extravert - but even so, this book contained plenty of valuable and interesting material that will help me be a better speaker. I don't think she would need to change very much in the book to turn it into "Public Speaking for Extraverts", but I'm sure any introverts reading it will be very reassured by the passages about their particular challenges.
Much of the book focuses not on developing the content of your speech or presentation, but on all the before and after considerations - how to find speaking engagements, what fees to charge, how to psych yourself up before you go on, how to expect to feel afterwards, etc etc. All very useful for anyone looking to develop public speaking as an additional income stream - and also for those who want to use speaking opportunities to raise their public profile and sell more of their books. (I fall into the latter category.) Being very bad at the financial side of things myself, I was heartened to read that even the best speakers will sometimes think it's worthwhile to do a talk for free, as I do, if the returns in kind are worthwhile (back-of-the-room book sales, higher profile, networking opportunities, etc.)
The single most useful tip? That no-one cares how you, the speaker, feels! The audience is instead concentrating on what's in it for them.I will tell myself that now before every talk that I give, and I'm sure it will help me give more audience satisfaction.
But this book doesn't just contain Joanna's viewpoint. There is a section from the renowned performance poet Dan Holloway, plus three interviews with high-achieving speakers in different fields. Two of the three speakers I had come across before, the other I didn't, but they all had much to add, including the perspectives of very different personalities, speaking topics and styles. These bonus sections help make this an even more well-rounded book with wider appeal.
Incidentally, I had the pleasure of seeing one of them, Alastair Humphreys, speak years ago at the start of his speaking career, when I booked him as a guest lecturer. He made a big impression on the audience then, was a joy to deal with, and it was great to learn that he has since made a sound career out of his public speaking, though now shifting focus to write more books. An excellent choice for inclusion here.
I really enjoyed and appreciated Joanna's thoughtful, frank and very personal style of writing in this book, including her questioning in the interviews section. She demonstrates that she has in abundance the three qualities that one of her interviewees says every good speaker should have: spontaneity, vulnerability and authenticity. A winning combination in this book, as well as on the public speaking stage.Thank you, Joanna Penn
With a number of speaking engagements of my own already in my diary for 2014, I was very pleased to be offered a free copy of this book in return for an honest review. Knowing of Joanna Penn's reputation as a public speaker and author, I was eager to read it.
I was surprised to find that Joanna, and many other respected public speakers are actually introverts - a bit like Laurence Olivier and other top actors being crippled with stage-fright, I suppose. On Joanna's recommendation early in the book, I took a free Myers-Briggs style test to find out whether, as an author, I was one too. I discovered (not entirely to my surprise) that I am very much an extravert - but even so, this book contained plenty of valuable and interesting material that will help me be a better speaker. I don't think she would need to change very much in the book to turn it into "Public Speaking for Extraverts", but I'm sure any introverts reading it will be very reassured by the passages about their particular challenges.
Much of the book focuses not on developing the content of your speech or presentation, but on all the before and after considerations - how to find speaking engagements, what fees to charge, how to psych yourself up before you go on, how to expect to feel afterwards, etc etc. All very useful for anyone looking to develop public speaking as an additional income stream - and also for those who want to use speaking opportunities to raise their public profile and sell more of their books. (I fall into the latter category.) Being very bad at the financial side of things myself, I was heartened to read that even the best speakers will sometimes think it's worthwhile to do a talk for free, as I do, if the returns in kind are worthwhile (back-of-the-room book sales, higher profile, networking opportunities, etc.)
The single most useful tip? That no-one cares how you, the speaker, feels! The audience is instead concentrating on what's in it for them.I will tell myself that now before every talk that I give, and I'm sure it will help me give more audience satisfaction.
But this book doesn't just contain Joanna's viewpoint. There is a section from the renowned performance poet Dan Holloway, plus three interviews with high-achieving speakers in different fields. Two of the three speakers I had come across before, the other I didn't, but they all had much to add, including the perspectives of very different personalities, speaking topics and styles. These bonus sections help make this an even more well-rounded book with wider appeal.
Incidentally, I had the pleasure of seeing one of them, Alastair Humphreys, speak years ago at the start of his speaking career, when I booked him as a guest lecturer. He made a big impression on the audience then, was a joy to deal with, and it was great to learn that he has since made a sound career out of his public speaking, though now shifting focus to write more books. An excellent choice for inclusion here.
I really enjoyed and appreciated Joanna's thoughtful, frank and very personal style of writing in this book, including her questioning in the interviews section. She demonstrates that she has in abundance the three qualities that one of her interviewees says every good speaker should have: spontaneity, vulnerability and authenticity. A winning combination in this book, as well as on the public speaking stage.Thank you, Joanna Penn
January 21, 2014
I'm an author and I'm an introvert. I didn't even realize public speaking and introverts could go together till I read this book. Joanna has lot of anecdotes to share about her personal struggle to reconcile the two, and I found myself nodding as I read the book. She has a lot of tip not just for authors but also for other creative people looking to generate income through public speaking. Highly recommended.
Note: the author provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Note: the author provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2020
I had to speak to an audience recently and was nervous about it after thinking about my previous public speaking experiences. This book helped me by giving some practical tips to feel better about it. Not only are there useful tips on managing speaking anxiety, but there’s also a lot of business tips here in case you ever thought about speaking for a living.
January 30, 2018
I got this book from goodreads giveaway.
"Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives and Other Introverts" is well written and very useful book. Author writes based on her own personal experience, gives a lot of great advice.
I would reccomend it to anyone who has trouble with public speaking or just wants to enrich their skills.
"Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives and Other Introverts" is well written and very useful book. Author writes based on her own personal experience, gives a lot of great advice.
I would reccomend it to anyone who has trouble with public speaking or just wants to enrich their skills.
March 10, 2016
I am neither an author nor do I consider myself as very creative, but I'm an introvert whose job entails teaching and presenting my research, so I'll take any advice I can get. I have learned a few basics of public speaking in classes at university, and I re-discovered some of these in this book. However, this book covers so many different aspects of public speaking that I hadn't ever thought about - apart from the awareness that I'm not alone out there, of course.
What I liked most about this book is that the author practices what she preaches - and I'm not talking about the public speaking, but the authenticity she focuses on in chapter 2.3. All that I've I learned from this book did not come from the anonymous voice of a 'how to' guide, but from the author herself, sharing not only her experience, but her own personal thoughts and feelings.
As I'm not planning to work as a professional speaker I skipped some of the sub-chapters on branding and marketing, but should I ever change my mind about my aspirations I'll know where to seek guidance!
What I liked most about this book is that the author practices what she preaches - and I'm not talking about the public speaking, but the authenticity she focuses on in chapter 2.3. All that I've I learned from this book did not come from the anonymous voice of a 'how to' guide, but from the author herself, sharing not only her experience, but her own personal thoughts and feelings.
As I'm not planning to work as a professional speaker I skipped some of the sub-chapters on branding and marketing, but should I ever change my mind about my aspirations I'll know where to seek guidance!
April 4, 2016
Ça me donne vraiment envie de recommencer à donner des conférences. Plusieurs bons trucs et témoignages intéressants à la fin du livre. Cependant, comme pas mal tous les livres de cette auteure, on fait du survol, on ne va jamais en profondeur. Mais c'était peut-être ça le but.
March 30, 2018
Another great book by Joanna Penn
I downloaded this book as I have been asked to do a talk soon at a local writers group, I have self published 6 nearly 7 books and they want advice on self publishing, which is fine, I feel I know it well but... I am a little scared at talking in front of people!!! Well this book has given me ideas on how to present myself (what to wear), how to breathe (as that is important), that activities help to break up time, that even though you might be an introvert you can still do public talks, rituals to try and calm ones self with and I found reading the interviews with other authors and speakers to be good to see how different people cope... a great read for anyone planning on talking to more than just themselves.
I downloaded this book as I have been asked to do a talk soon at a local writers group, I have self published 6 nearly 7 books and they want advice on self publishing, which is fine, I feel I know it well but... I am a little scared at talking in front of people!!! Well this book has given me ideas on how to present myself (what to wear), how to breathe (as that is important), that activities help to break up time, that even though you might be an introvert you can still do public talks, rituals to try and calm ones self with and I found reading the interviews with other authors and speakers to be good to see how different people cope... a great read for anyone planning on talking to more than just themselves.
February 11, 2020
There are lots of good practical tips-
scout the location, have backups for notes, dress for the occassion, how to set-up an email list, organizing your own events and more. Emphasis on being mindful of speaking pace and pauses. You dont want to rush through it, but you dont want to lull the audience to sleep with a monotonous drone either. Also, the importantace of punctuality and sticking to a set timeframe(especially when there's refreshments.) As the author perfectly explains:
"You are never more important than food or alcohol."
She advises watching TED talks and comedians to pick up on their delivery methods. That's some homework I can get on board with! There's also a ton of great content on www.thecreativepenn.com
scout the location, have backups for notes, dress for the occassion, how to set-up an email list, organizing your own events and more. Emphasis on being mindful of speaking pace and pauses. You dont want to rush through it, but you dont want to lull the audience to sleep with a monotonous drone either. Also, the importantace of punctuality and sticking to a set timeframe(especially when there's refreshments.) As the author perfectly explains:
"You are never more important than food or alcohol."
She advises watching TED talks and comedians to pick up on their delivery methods. That's some homework I can get on board with! There's also a ton of great content on www.thecreativepenn.com
June 29, 2018
I don't think of myself as an introvert but I do speak regularly at conferences, so wanted to check out Joanna's advice. This is a treasure trove of a book, with excellent tips for every aspect of speaking.
There are lots of tips and ideas for improving your preparation and delivery, and I particularly liked having the references to content by other experts. I'm definitely going to adopt the idea of a private area on my website where delegates can access a PDF of slides and a summary - that will help me to reduce the words on my slides. Another well-thought out book with practical advice that will really help anyone who wants to make better presentations and enjoy the experience.
There are lots of tips and ideas for improving your preparation and delivery, and I particularly liked having the references to content by other experts. I'm definitely going to adopt the idea of a private area on my website where delegates can access a PDF of slides and a summary - that will help me to reduce the words on my slides. Another well-thought out book with practical advice that will really help anyone who wants to make better presentations and enjoy the experience.
April 30, 2021
I've been speaking for a number of years now but this was still an interesting read to hear another professional speaker's perspective. We never stop learning, so it would be short-sighted for me to think I know it all. I most definitely don't! The biggest revelation for me throughout the book for was realising that despite my love of people and sharing my experiences at speaking events, I am most probably an introvert. I'll be checking out the useful book recommendations Joanna cited on this topic and of course, the resources on her website. I particularly appreciated the advice on when to say no to an engagement request.
August 12, 2018
This is a great book to help you get ready for public speaking and does not exclusively have to be read by authors, creatives or introverts - it is useful for anyone about to do some public speaking. I found all the before, during and after tips very handy. There were quite a few things I hadn't considered such as what to do if there were tech difficulties or hecklers. It was also a relief to know that feeling nervous and getting butterflies was a normal and common response. I now feel ready to dip my toe into the world of public speaking. Highly recommended.
December 26, 2018
Joanna delivers again with this thorough, clear, organized and real life advice book! No matter where you are in your speaking career, this book has great advice for speaking and feeling more at ease with speaking.
When I started my author journey I had no idea or inclination to speak. When I was soon asked to speak to classrooms, book clubs, and conferences, I realized I needed to work on learning more as a speaker. Joanna has been someone I’ve followed for many years and this book was very timely. Thank you, Joanna!
When I started my author journey I had no idea or inclination to speak. When I was soon asked to speak to classrooms, book clubs, and conferences, I realized I needed to work on learning more as a speaker. Joanna has been someone I’ve followed for many years and this book was very timely. Thank you, Joanna!
October 16, 2020
“Public Speaking: For Authors, Creatives, and Other Introverts” by Joanna Penn is a good book if you want to learn how to add speaking to your marketing mix - or want to add speaking as a revenue stream.
Like me, Joanna is an introvert, and she provides a lot of tips on how to manage your introversion with your speaking obligations.
I used to do public speaking all the time, and I loved it. I pulled away from it, partly from exhaustion, partly because of other time commitments with my aging parents.
Now I am ready to get back to it, and this book has helped to revitalize my interest!
Like me, Joanna is an introvert, and she provides a lot of tips on how to manage your introversion with your speaking obligations.
I used to do public speaking all the time, and I loved it. I pulled away from it, partly from exhaustion, partly because of other time commitments with my aging parents.
Now I am ready to get back to it, and this book has helped to revitalize my interest!
February 7, 2021
For me I thought this book fell into a business perspective than focusing on public speaking for introverts. The author captured the outlines of public speaking but really went into finer details for self marketing. It’s good for anyone who is starting out to establish themselves but there’s not a lot of information for public speaking.
June 28, 2023
I chose this book because I enjoyed a book that Joanna wrote for non-fiction authors and writers. I also enjoy her podcast. I am interested in becoming a public speaker after my book is published. There are many helpful thoughts and ideas in this book, but I was hoping for more depth and less of an outline feel.
December 31, 2019
As an introvert, I often let fear stop me from speaking. I’d like to change that and this book offers practical steps. I have an action list and will come back to it for next steps after I take action in these initial steps. Think it is helpful for all people who desire to speak publicly.
August 3, 2022
A Useful Guide
While a lot of this information I knew, it’s a useful guide to come back to when you’re worried about a speech or presenting something online. I loved the part about how introverts do well online. I completely agree as an introvert that can be extrovert sometimes.
While a lot of this information I knew, it’s a useful guide to come back to when you’re worried about a speech or presenting something online. I loved the part about how introverts do well online. I completely agree as an introvert that can be extrovert sometimes.
August 24, 2024
Half of the book focuses on marketing and business, which wasn’t quite what I expected based on the title. It suggested more focus on public speaking, but there was less content in that area than I had hoped. The sections on business and marketing were also just shallow.
December 5, 2019
For absolute beginners and only 5% is for introverts, 95% is for all of us.
August 2, 2024
Es un libro bastante sencillo pero me gusto mucho la forma en que presenta los principios y el enfoque práctico de la autora. Lo recomiendo.
October 9, 2014
In analyzing the results of the launch of my first book last month, a surprising finding emerged. While my online sales were frustratingly few, sales during personal appearances were stronger than for typical authors . The question then came up: should I be speaking more? And what should such speaking look like? When I stumbled across Joanna Penn’s book, Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives, and Other Introverts, I immediately ordered a copy.
Mind you, I have been speaking publicly for most of my professional life, both as an economist and as a pastor. However, economists typically address audiences of other economists and pastors typically address a familiar congregation. In neither case is the audience wholly unfamiliar; in both cases the audience response is fairly gracious of what is being presented. Public speaking to unfamiliar audience to speak about a book is a bit more out there than I am accustomed to.
Penn states her writing objective as follows: In this book, I’ll share everything that I know as a professional speaker and introvert (11). She breaks this objective down into 4 parts:
1. The practicalities of speaking;
2. The psychological aspects of speaking;
3. The business side; and
4. Interviews with professional speakers (11).
In other words, this book focuses on things that speakers do and worry about; it does not focus on how to write and deliver good speeches.
An important point in my own choice of this book is that Penn straddles 2 worlds: public speaking and book writing and publishing. While there is a lot of overlap these days between these 2 worlds—speakers that write (politicians, for example) and writers that speak (best-selling authors that do appearances)—the mechanics of these 2 professional realms are filled with thousands of unwritten rules, details, and networking requirements. If the subject matter were different, an entirely different set of observations would arise. Think of the worlds of IT gurus or sports figures or film stars. Penn’s niche and expertise speaks specifically into my space as a writer/publisher.
Penn drills down into her audience a bit deeper by focusing on the fears and anxieties of “introverts” and “creatives”. In some sense, she is carving out a niche here with not just authors, but authors focused on creative writing. Perhaps even more specifically female, creative writers (17-19).
Two sections of the book were of special interest to me. The first focused on 6 types of speaking. Penn lists those as:
1. Keynote/Inspirational speaking;
2. Content speaking;
3. Workshop presenting/facilitating;
4. Mc/Event chair;
5. Chair of panel or panelist; and
6. Reader/performer of your own work (24-25).
I suppose that an author presenting their own work might fit into most of these types, depending on the work. One on my mind as I read the book is not on the list: radio interviewing.
The second section of special interest to me was her discussion of using video. For example, Penn sees 6 uses for video:
1. Self-improvement tool;
2. Evidence of speaking ability;
3. Bonus material for spicing up sessions;
4. Testimonials;
5. Marketing; and
6. Premium product for customers (133-134)
Although I have produced a number of You-Tube videos for Leader and Media Guides to promote my book, video remains a source of anxiety for me . Seeing the scope of use for video helps to reduce anxiety by demonstrating the range and real value of their use.
Joanna Penn’s Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives, and Other Introverts is a real gem. Over the years I have read a number of books on public speaking—most on preaching—and this is the first book with real value added in terms of what speakers worry about most—the zillions of details where things go wrong or should be prepared for in advance. Penn is obviously very readable. Authors should take special note.
Mind you, I have been speaking publicly for most of my professional life, both as an economist and as a pastor. However, economists typically address audiences of other economists and pastors typically address a familiar congregation. In neither case is the audience wholly unfamiliar; in both cases the audience response is fairly gracious of what is being presented. Public speaking to unfamiliar audience to speak about a book is a bit more out there than I am accustomed to.
Penn states her writing objective as follows: In this book, I’ll share everything that I know as a professional speaker and introvert (11). She breaks this objective down into 4 parts:
1. The practicalities of speaking;
2. The psychological aspects of speaking;
3. The business side; and
4. Interviews with professional speakers (11).
In other words, this book focuses on things that speakers do and worry about; it does not focus on how to write and deliver good speeches.
An important point in my own choice of this book is that Penn straddles 2 worlds: public speaking and book writing and publishing. While there is a lot of overlap these days between these 2 worlds—speakers that write (politicians, for example) and writers that speak (best-selling authors that do appearances)—the mechanics of these 2 professional realms are filled with thousands of unwritten rules, details, and networking requirements. If the subject matter were different, an entirely different set of observations would arise. Think of the worlds of IT gurus or sports figures or film stars. Penn’s niche and expertise speaks specifically into my space as a writer/publisher.
Penn drills down into her audience a bit deeper by focusing on the fears and anxieties of “introverts” and “creatives”. In some sense, she is carving out a niche here with not just authors, but authors focused on creative writing. Perhaps even more specifically female, creative writers (17-19).
Two sections of the book were of special interest to me. The first focused on 6 types of speaking. Penn lists those as:
1. Keynote/Inspirational speaking;
2. Content speaking;
3. Workshop presenting/facilitating;
4. Mc/Event chair;
5. Chair of panel or panelist; and
6. Reader/performer of your own work (24-25).
I suppose that an author presenting their own work might fit into most of these types, depending on the work. One on my mind as I read the book is not on the list: radio interviewing.
The second section of special interest to me was her discussion of using video. For example, Penn sees 6 uses for video:
1. Self-improvement tool;
2. Evidence of speaking ability;
3. Bonus material for spicing up sessions;
4. Testimonials;
5. Marketing; and
6. Premium product for customers (133-134)
Although I have produced a number of You-Tube videos for Leader and Media Guides to promote my book, video remains a source of anxiety for me . Seeing the scope of use for video helps to reduce anxiety by demonstrating the range and real value of their use.
Joanna Penn’s Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives, and Other Introverts is a real gem. Over the years I have read a number of books on public speaking—most on preaching—and this is the first book with real value added in terms of what speakers worry about most—the zillions of details where things go wrong or should be prepared for in advance. Penn is obviously very readable. Authors should take special note.
January 14, 2014
Joanna had me in tears within the first few chapters. I finally realized that, no, I am not a freak of nature for wanting to retreat into hole at the mere sight of a crowd—I am an introvert, and it’s natural to feel the way I do. You definitely have to “name it to tame it” as public speaker, Clare Edwards, mentions in Part 4, where Joanna includes a few interview transcripts of other professionals in her field.
I have never had the courage to speak publicly. Nor do I really have the desire to become a professional public speaker, but this book definitely made me realize that if I’m put in the situation where I do have to speak publicly, there are ways to handle it, without falling in the emotional deep end. I have always been afraid of public speaking opportunities. And I always say to myself, that I’ll just turn them down. I can’t hack it. But this book has made me rethink this knee-jerk reaction of mine.
If you’re someone who actually wants to break into public speaking professionally, this book also contains practical advice, from dealing with the technical aspects a speaker must consider, to controlling hagglers in the audience.
If you need the know-how, this book will give it to you. But it’s not just a know-how book. Joanna writes from personal experience in a very friendly and genuine manner—it feels like you’re conversing in her very own lounge room. That’s what I love most about this book. She’s kind, accessible, and authentic. That is comforting for an introvert like me. I really felt like she was on my side, and that I am not the only one facing these fears. In fact, there are more out there like me than I thought.
Highly recommend.
*Note: I received this as a free review copy , but this has had no influence on my opinion.
I have never had the courage to speak publicly. Nor do I really have the desire to become a professional public speaker, but this book definitely made me realize that if I’m put in the situation where I do have to speak publicly, there are ways to handle it, without falling in the emotional deep end. I have always been afraid of public speaking opportunities. And I always say to myself, that I’ll just turn them down. I can’t hack it. But this book has made me rethink this knee-jerk reaction of mine.
If you’re someone who actually wants to break into public speaking professionally, this book also contains practical advice, from dealing with the technical aspects a speaker must consider, to controlling hagglers in the audience.
If you need the know-how, this book will give it to you. But it’s not just a know-how book. Joanna writes from personal experience in a very friendly and genuine manner—it feels like you’re conversing in her very own lounge room. That’s what I love most about this book. She’s kind, accessible, and authentic. That is comforting for an introvert like me. I really felt like she was on my side, and that I am not the only one facing these fears. In fact, there are more out there like me than I thought.
Highly recommend.
*Note: I received this as a free review copy , but this has had no influence on my opinion.
January 28, 2020
Great Book! Joanna ALWAYS has new insights.
I love Joanna Penn, first of all. I think she is amazing. As an indie author, I have gobbled up So Much of her amazing content on her YouTube channel that I almost feel like i should buy all her books just to give back the energy and value she has provided me. (And I will, slowly and surely) Having said that, even though I follow her work closely, whenever I get one of her books, I ALWAYS find something new. I think Joanna learns constantly and it shows in her work and in her books. For example: I read this book before I gave a talk about sensitivity and highly sensitive people. Around 85 people showed up for it. One of the things that I learned from this book is that it's okay to feel exhausted after a talk. Joanna talks about how that means you gave your all and it's not a problem of "not having managed your energy." As a sensitive person and an introvert, I AM exhausted after giving such talks. BUT that tiredness is in the service of something bigger. If I hadn't heard this articulated so clearly, I think I would have blamed myself for not managing my energy. Joanna's experience shows in the insights you will get from her work. Highly recommend!
I love Joanna Penn, first of all. I think she is amazing. As an indie author, I have gobbled up So Much of her amazing content on her YouTube channel that I almost feel like i should buy all her books just to give back the energy and value she has provided me. (And I will, slowly and surely) Having said that, even though I follow her work closely, whenever I get one of her books, I ALWAYS find something new. I think Joanna learns constantly and it shows in her work and in her books. For example: I read this book before I gave a talk about sensitivity and highly sensitive people. Around 85 people showed up for it. One of the things that I learned from this book is that it's okay to feel exhausted after a talk. Joanna talks about how that means you gave your all and it's not a problem of "not having managed your energy." As a sensitive person and an introvert, I AM exhausted after giving such talks. BUT that tiredness is in the service of something bigger. If I hadn't heard this articulated so clearly, I think I would have blamed myself for not managing my energy. Joanna's experience shows in the insights you will get from her work. Highly recommend!
September 21, 2016
This book offers a unique perspective - not just on public speaking as an introvert, but on looking at public speaking from the point of view of wanting to integrate it into your career. There is less focus on adapting your content for a spoken format (which I didn't miss - plenty of books and other resources cover that already) and more on the act of speaking itself. It is the point of view regarding the latter that makes this book unique.
Joanna Penn is a professional author, introvert, and has made speaking in various forms part of her business. She knows what she's talking about. As always, she is generously sharing her knowledge - covering everything from the technical details to reflective self-assessments. As a result of this immediately actionable and encouraging advice, as I finished this book I found myself with deepened motivation to further develop public speaking as one of the focal points in my combined career(s) as a creative writer and medical scientist.
Joanna Penn is a professional author, introvert, and has made speaking in various forms part of her business. She knows what she's talking about. As always, she is generously sharing her knowledge - covering everything from the technical details to reflective self-assessments. As a result of this immediately actionable and encouraging advice, as I finished this book I found myself with deepened motivation to further develop public speaking as one of the focal points in my combined career(s) as a creative writer and medical scientist.
December 8, 2019
This past fall, I had my first public speaking experience as an author. And while I thought that I was plenty prepared, the second I got behind the microphone, I found myself shaking uncontrollably. I completely forgot everything that I had written up. I knew that I needed a little help, so I picked up this book. And as an author, and an introvert, it seemed like a good fit.
The second edition of Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives, and Other Introverts, admittedly goes a bit farther than I intend to dabble in as a small-time writer, but the advice here is undoubtedly good, covering everything from mindset issues to practical advice on what exactly you need to do in a public speaking setting. It’s clear that the author, Joanna Penn, is speaking from her own personal experience, which makes her advice feel quite legitimate.
This is an overall solid selection for any author who’s looking to use public speaking as part of their marketing.
The second edition of Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives, and Other Introverts, admittedly goes a bit farther than I intend to dabble in as a small-time writer, but the advice here is undoubtedly good, covering everything from mindset issues to practical advice on what exactly you need to do in a public speaking setting. It’s clear that the author, Joanna Penn, is speaking from her own personal experience, which makes her advice feel quite legitimate.
This is an overall solid selection for any author who’s looking to use public speaking as part of their marketing.
October 16, 2019
Much of my writing experience is as a speechwriter. Although this book highlights particular challenges introverts (by way of Joanna sharing and being brutally honest throughout) and other creatives may have when finding themselves in a speaking role, for its tremendously complete and thoughtful addressing of the myriad considerations for giving a talk--it is an absolute must-have for ALL public speaking preparation.
I have been listening to and enjoying Joanna's podcast for about a year now. As wonderfully helpful as she is in that format, focusing on topics related to the life of an independent author, this book expands what we think of as her expertise and launchers her into the realm of public speaking coaches. She has rightly identified a MAJOR issue for authors and other creatives (mental and other blocks to public speaking) and provides pragmatic approaches and solutions to this problem as well as other tips to expand and solidify a creative brand.
I have been listening to and enjoying Joanna's podcast for about a year now. As wonderfully helpful as she is in that format, focusing on topics related to the life of an independent author, this book expands what we think of as her expertise and launchers her into the realm of public speaking coaches. She has rightly identified a MAJOR issue for authors and other creatives (mental and other blocks to public speaking) and provides pragmatic approaches and solutions to this problem as well as other tips to expand and solidify a creative brand.
June 6, 2015
I have to admit becoming a fan of Joanna Penn recently, listening to her podcasts, reading her blog and now working my way through her books. I read this one as I had a speech in front of a couple of hundred people coming up, and it was reassuring to read the advice and suggestions, as well as very helpful to use her checklists for prep on my own. I also thought the advice on follow up was very good, this changed my own process. Very helpful if you do any kind of presentations, training or public speaking at all. Would have loved it to have been longer though! :-)
February 9, 2014
Introvert or not, this book is an excellent guidance through your public speaking career. It offers a lot of tips and practical insights that at the first sight can be easily ignored because 'too technical', but which guarantee the success of the assignment. More about this book on my blog: http://findthewordblog.blogspot.de/20...
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