Public speaking is both an art and a science, a delicate combination of technique and passion that can be difficult to master. When one recognizes the need for assistance in this area, the next logical step is to hire a public speaking coach. However, in my experience, there are some vital elements about public speaking coaches that I wish I had known before I ventured into the market to hire one. Here, I aim to share those key insights with you, drawing from a multitude of disciplines, including psychology, business, and education.

Firstly, let's delve into the realm of personality psychology. One crucial aspect I overlooked was the importance of matching personality types between the coach and myself. Each one of us carries a unique blend of characteristics that govern our behavior in various scenarios. According to Carl Jung's Theory of Psychological Types, these characteristics can be broadly classified into Introverted or Extraverted, Sensing or Intuition, Thinking or Feeling, and Judging or Perceiving (known as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator). A public speaking coach with a personality type that complements your own can significantly enhance the learning experience. A mismatch, on the other hand, may lead to frustration and dissatisfaction.

Secondly, from the business standpoint, the cost-effectiveness of hiring a public speaking coach was a factor I underestimated. While it's tempting to associate higher price with superior quality, this correlation isn't always valid. The Pareto Principle or the 80/20 rule asserts that for many events, roughly 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes. In this context, it implies that the majority of your public speaking skills can be enhanced by focusing on a few critical areas. Investing in a high-priced coach doesn't necessarily ensure faster or more significant improvement. Remember to consider the value you receive in comparison to the investment you make.

Thirdly, the location and accessibility of the coach were something I wish I had given more thought to. In today's globally interconnected world, digital platforms have erased traditional boundaries, allowing access to experts from across the globe. This has opened up a plethora of opportunities to learn from diverse cultures and perspectives. However, it's important to consider the practical implications of time zone differences, language proficiency, and internet reliability before choosing a coach based in another part of the world.

The fourth point involves the application of statistical concepts. When selecting a coach, it's all too easy to be swayed by impressive success stories or glowing testimonials. However, it's essential to remember the statistical axiom: correlation does not imply causation. Just because a coach has helped other clients achieve success does not guarantee the same results for you. Be wary of selection bias, where only successful outcomes are highlighted, ignoring those who didn't benefit from the coaching.

Finally, the principles of adult learning, as proposed by Malcolm Knowles in his Andragogy theory, also apply to hiring a public speaking coach. Adults are autonomous, self-directed learners with a wealth of experiences that they bring to the learning environment. A good public speaking coach should recognize this and tailor their approach to align with your experience, knowledge level, and learning pace. A 'one size fits all' approach to coaching can be counterproductive.

As you embark on your journey to improve your public speaking skills, bearing these five insights in mind may save you from potential pitfalls. Remember, a public speaking coach serves as a guide, helping you discover your unique style and voice. Choose wisely, keeping in mind your personality type, budget, logistical practicalities, evidence-based decision-making, and personal learning style. Here's to a riveting and resonant public speaking journey!