• Reveal your humanity. People are drawn to people they admire, but they also want to know that those people are just like them. Don't be afraid to reveal a relevant flaw or habit that could connect you to your audience.

As you continue to improve your public-speaking ability, record yourself and analyze your progress. You might find it useful to do this in the privacy of your own home and at one of your speeches. It can also be helpful to record yourself on the phone. After all, the smallest audience sometimes can be the most important.

In addition, take note of your clothing and your posture. Ask yourself what they say about you and how you might be able to improve upon that message.

Practice thinking before you speak, as well. It's easy to fall into the habit of knowing the answer to people's questions before they finish speaking. Work on allowing people to finish. Allow some silence and use those extra few seconds to think about what you will say and how you will say it.

Make sure that you can back up what you say, as well. Remember that the microphone is always on. Just when you least expect it, people are listening. Give every word you say care and attention. You can improve your speaking ability and help establish yourself as a leader in the world of real estate finance.

Ultimately, brokers who learn from Obama and other great orators while also staying true to themselves can help establish themselves as industry leaders. Moreover, the better you get at public speaking, the more chances you'll get to put those skills to use.

Karen Susman speaks about and coaches communication skills and wellness issues. Some of her audiences include the Western Regional Mortgage Brokers Conference and the Colorado Association of Mortgage Brokers. Learn more at www.karensusman.com. Contact Susman at karen@karensusman.com or (888) 678-8818.

Page: 1 2 Previous