CIC Holdings helps staff overcome the fear of public speaking

Friday, 31 May 2013 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

CIC Holdings conducts workshops on the craft of speech and public speaking, one of the many initiatives by the company to develop the skills of their employees and provide training which will benefit their lives in general.

Conducted by the Division A, Toastmasters of District 82 and Serendib Toastmasters Club, the program will include feature presentations from experienced local Toastmasters on topics such as effective communication, structuring a presentation, body language, vocal variety, impromptu speaking, speech evaluations and humour in public speaking.

Commenting on the initiative, Samantha Ranatunga, Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of CIC Holdings, said: “The strength of the CIC Group is our staff and thus, developing their skills is always a top priority. In today’s corporate world, everyone is required to speak and present to an audience in one instance or another. However, the fear of public speaking is one that is prevalent among many and we are grateful to the Division A Toastmasters of District 82 and Serendib Toastmasters Club for providing invaluable tips and training on how to overcome it.”

The speech craft workshops are a part of the CIC Holdings’ training program on communication and leadership skills and are open to all staff of the company as well as to staff of subsidiaries of the group.

The inaugural session was held recently with a keynote address on ‘How to overcome the fear of speaking’ delivered by Able Toastmaster Haleem Ghouse, Founder Member of Colombo Toastmasters Club, and a professional trainer. B.R.L. Fernando, Chairman of CIC Holdings as well as Ranatunga, both able speakers themselves, were among the attendees at the sessions providing their input.

Having completed the initial sessions, the coordinator of the program T.M. Sunil de Silva, Division Governor A of District 82 and member of Serendib Toastmasters, stated: “It was very encouraging to note the enthusiastic participation of the staff which included the chairman of the company, who not only sat through the entire proceedings but also took up an active role in the sessions. I am very confident that at the end of this program, the company will be able to achieve their objective of unearthing the speaking and presentation skills of the participants.”