In an inspiring tale of personal growth, renowned investor and philanthropist Warren Buffett has revealed his journey from being a fearful public speaker to becoming a respected orator. Buffett, who will be addressing shareholders at the Berkshire Hathaway meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, has credited a public speaking course for his transformation.

Buffett's fear of public speaking was not uncommon, as he admitted that it made him "physically ill" and he even avoided college courses that required speaking in front of a class. However, after completing his studies at Columbia Business School in 1951, Buffett made a determined effort to conquer his fear. He enrolled in a $100 public speaking course offered by Dale Carnegie Training, an institute named after the influential speaker and author.

According to Buffett, the course had a significant impact on his subsequent success. He emphasized that even a modest improvement in communication skills can wield a major influence on one's earning power and various aspects of life. This sentiment was echoed by Joe Hart, CEO of Dale Carnegie, who emphasized that professionals can still benefit from the lessons Buffett learned in that public speaking course.

One of the key strategies Buffett employs in his speeches is sharing personal experiences. By adding anecdotes from his own life and career, he connects with the audience on a deeper level and effectively conveys his messages. Carnegie himself advised individuals to talk about subjects they are knowledgeable and experienced in, in order to maintain authenticity and capture the audience's attention.

Furthermore, Carnegie encouraged speakers to rely on brief notes instead of fully transcribed scripts. Buffett exemplifies this principle by rarely referring to notes during his speeches. Reading from a script can hinder natural delivery and prevent speakers from engaging with their audience effectively.

Another crucial aspect of effective communication, according to Hart, is demonstrating enthusiasm and confidence. Buffett's passion for investing and achieving success, which developed at a young age, shines through in his speeches and interviews. Carnegie aptly stated that even individuals with mediocre speaking abilities can deliver outstanding talks if they speak about topics that deeply resonate with them.

With Buffett's personal journey in mind, Dale Carnegie and CNBC are now offering an online course titled "Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking." The course aims to help individuals speak clearly and confidently, manage nerves, use appropriate language, and employ effective body language to make a lasting impression. Those interested in improving their communication skills can sign up and avail a 30% discount with the code EARLYBIRD, valid through July 10, 2024.

Warren Buffett's story serves as a reminder that personal growth and overcoming fears are possible with determination and the right guidance. By implementing strategies such as sharing personal experiences, relying on brief notes, and maintaining enthusiasm, individuals can enhance their communication skills and achieve success in various areas of life.

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