Episode 278 - Why Smart Professionals Struggle with Speaking Anxiety
In the corporate world, communication is currency. Public speaking and self-presentation are essential skills for corporate professionals looking to advance their careers. Whether you're interviewing for a new job, leading a team, or speaking at a conference, confidence in your communication can set you apart. Yet, many professionals struggle with anxiety when speaking in public or talking about themselves.
In this podcast episode, Linda Ugelow, a speaking confidence coach, podcast host, and author of Delight in the Limelight, explains the possible reasons why we may struggle with public speaking, as well as strategies to overcome speaking anxiety, heal critical inner voices, and build a powerful, authentic presence in professional settings.
Why High-Achieving Professionals Struggle to Talk About Themselves
It’s a paradox I see time and again—executives who can eloquently advocate for their companies yet freeze when asked about their own achievements. What causes this disconnect? Ugelow shed light on this widespread challenge during our conversation on the podcast, pointing out several possible causes.
One major culprit is social conditioning. In cultures like Australia and the UK, the “tall poppy syndrome” discourages self-promotion. Professionals who have been taught not to stand out or appear boastful find it excruciating to discuss their own success. Add to this the psychological residue of childhood experiences—being criticized, bullied, or ignored—and you have a recipe for lifelong speaking anxiety.
But these issues don’t just affect job seekers. They manifest in boardrooms, on conference stages, and even in everyday meetings. The cost of staying silent can be severe: missed promotions, lost opportunities, and the constant frustration of watching less-qualified colleagues move ahead.
The Crisis of Self-Reflection in Modern Workplaces
Another theme that surfaced in my conversation with Ugelow is the broader issue of self-awareness. Many professionals spend their entire careers focused on external outputs—meeting targets, managing teams, driving revenue—while neglecting internal reflection. When it comes time to interview for a new role or negotiate a raise, they’re suddenly forced to articulate their own worth, and they find themselves unprepared.
Gone are the days when journaling and introspection were common practices. Today’s professionals are drowning in email threads and endless Zoom calls, leaving little room for deep self-reflection. This lack of practice in articulating one’s own narrative is a hidden career killer.
Why We Need to Rethink Public Speaking Training
Traditional advice for overcoming speaking anxiety often falls flat. “Fake it till you make it,” or “Power pose your way to confidence” are short-term fixes, not lasting solutions. Ugelow’s approach is different—she encourages professionals to dig deeper, identifying the root causes of their fear rather than simply managing symptoms.
Techniques like creative visualization, journaling, and emotional freedom tapping (EFT) are often dismissed in corporate circles as “woo-woo.” But the reality is, they work. The world’s most effective leaders don’t just master their industries; they master their internal narratives.
The Speaking Mistakes That Are Holding You Back
Even those who feel comfortable speaking can undermine their authority with subtle but critical mistakes:
Overusing filler words – Frequent “um” and “like” can diminish executive presence.
Flat, monotone delivery – Failing to use vocal variation makes even the most insightful points sound dull.
Avoiding eye contact or expressive gestures – A lack of engagement signals a lack of confidence.
Ignoring the power of storytelling – Facts and figures matter, but stories make an impact.
As I discussed with Ugelow, learning to communicate is about eliminating fear and unlocking potential. The ability to own your story, speak with conviction, and recover gracefully from mistakes is what separates top-tier professionals from the rest.
A New Era of Career Success: Owning Your Voice
As economic uncertainty looms, competition in the job market is fiercer than ever. Professionals who want to stand out must prioritize their speaking skills—not just for job interviews but for long-term career growth. Whether negotiating salaries, presenting to senior leadership, or building thought leadership through public speaking, communication is no longer a soft skill; it’s a career-defining asset.
The good news? These skills are learnable. Confidence isn’t a fixed trait—it’s a muscle that can be developed. But it requires a willingness to do the internal work, to challenge long-held fears, and to practice articulating personal value without hesitation.
In my work as a career strategist, I’ve seen firsthand how professionals who commit to this transformation go on to land leadership roles, command higher salaries, and gain industry influence. The takeaway is clear: If you want to future-proof your career, it’s time to stop hiding behind modesty and start owning your voice.
So, the next time you hesitate to speak up about your achievements, remember: The ability to articulate your value isn’t self-indulgence—it’s a necessity.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
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