This public speaking class transformed Warren Buffett's life—4 valuable lessons learned.

Yearly, prior to the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders gathering, numerous individuals gather outside the CHI Health Center Arena in Omaha, Nebraska, to listen to Warren Buffett's address.

Last month, CNBC Make It reported that some individuals seek investment advice, while others desire Buffett's life counsel.

Although Buffett is known for his oratory skills, he was not naturally inclined towards public speaking. The thought of speaking in front of an audience made him physically ill, and he avoided speaking in public as much as possible. Buffett revealed this in an interview with Gillian Zoe Segal for her 2015 book, "Getting There: A Book of Mentors."

In 1951, after graduating from Columbia Business School, Buffett decided to conquer his fear. He enrolled in a $100 public speaking course at Dale Carnegie Training, an institute known for its influential speaker and author, Dale Carnegie.

Mastering communication and public speaking is the ultimate guide.

"Buffett stated that the class had the greatest influence on his success, and a small enhancement in communication skills can significantly impact future earnings and various aspects of life."

In 2019, CEO Joe Hart of Dale Carnegie told CNBC that professionals can still benefit from the lessons Buffett used in his public speaking course. Here are some effective ways to improve communication skills.

Learn as much as you can

Know what you're talking about and prepare accordingly. Spend more time preparing than you would for a short talk.

Hart stated that being an "active learner" like Buffett is crucial for public speaking as it can enhance one's understanding of diverse topics.

Hart added that it's contributed to his success.

Talk about your own experiences

Winning people over in a speech is most effective when it is personal, as Carnegie wrote. Buffett often achieves this by incorporating anecdotes from his own life and career into his talks.

As Carnegie advised, keep a sheet of paper with you for several weeks and jot down any subjects you are prepared to discuss through experience.

Jot down notes, not a draft

One of Carnegie's core principles is that a good speech is never fully transcribed beforehand.

Carnegie advised that reading from a script can prevent being fully present.

"He wrote that when standing up to speak, one might struggle to recall what was written, hindering the ability to communicate fluently and confidently."

Get excited about the topic

According to Hart, exuding confidence, having positive energy, and smiling can make a significant impact.

At a young age, Buffett developed a strong interest in investing, money, and achieving success, which has persisted throughout his life and is evident in his speeches and interviews.

Speaking about something that deeply stirs them can make even people with mediocre speaking ability give superb talks, as Carnegie said.

To become a successful and confident communicator, enroll in CNBC's online course, "Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking." Our program will teach you how to speak clearly and confidently, manage your nerves, choose the right words and body language, and make a great first impression. Sign up now and use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount through July 10, 2024.

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