Let’s talk about things that might make me feel somewhat uncomfortable – you guessed it, speaking in public is one of them. I’m an introvert, quite shy in social environments, yet public speaking (at meetings or workshops) is part of my job.

Getting older (and perhaps wiser) is helping me overcome impostor syndrome, self-doubt, and the anxieties that come with public speaking. Rehearsing a lot and learning tricks of the trade are also helpful. This research into tricks led me to Viv Groskop and her book and podcast, “How To Own The Room.”

This book captivated me right away. It features women speakers as role models and breaks down effective strategies for delivering a speech in an easy-to-understand way, making the process enjoyable and helping to learn from setbacks.

I love that the author (who is also a trained stand-up comedian) frequently shares “in-your-face” common sense pearls of wisdom. She does this with grace, humour, and didactically. It all makes sense when you read it.

Some of these pearls include sentences like, “If you have to be the first person who looks and sounds like you, so what? Own it. Be the first.” She also advises not aiming for perfection but focusing on delivery and attitude towards the task.

As for role models, Viv Groskop dissects speeches by women like Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, JK Rowling, and Angela Merkel. Each one of them is unique in their own way.

Every chapter covers an aspect of public speaking, from the power of conviction to the importance of your personal story. There are plenty of examples, tips, and assignments to help you improve. Concepts like “Happy High Status” (a state of mind people like Michelle Obama project when speaking) are also discussed.

I love that the book has a final chapter dedicated to “How To Own The Zoom” – including guidelines for online meetings. This is brilliant, as it can be difficult to know the best protocol to follow.

I would like to finish by recommending not just the book but also Viv Groskop’s podcast. It has been a joy to listen to many episodes while commuting. I loved the interviews and the numerous hacks you can pick up just by listening.