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Do you have to be a good public speaker to have a career at PIMCO?

I am not a good public speaker and fear that that's important if I want to pursue a career in business (specifically investment management). How important is it? #finance #financial-services #investment-management #investing #public-speaking

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Giles’s Answer

Good public speaking is obviously important. However, even more important, I've rarely met a natural born public speaker. Most of them are made. I've known many people, myself included, who would hold on to a chair when speaking, and it would shake!
I just did a lot of it. Practice in school was the biggest start. Then, when working, finding topics I liked and making sure I spoke up in discussions. Over time, it came to me.
Eventually, it becomes much, much more natural. Then you get a reputation for always being willing to talk...
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Zephram’s Answer

While you wouldn't expect public speaking to necessarily be an essential tool in this industry, it is extremely valuable. Effective communication is a crucial skill in most walks of life and that's the case whether you are communicating with two people or 50. Nonetheless, that shouldn't dissuade you from pursuing a career in investment management, or any other industry for that matter. Most people (including me) do not begin their careers being proficient or confident speaking in front of many people. Indeed, it takes practice and experience to develop this skill and overcome any anxieties you may have about public speaking. Having the confidence to keep trying and learning from each experience is the first step, and know that each time will get a little bit easier.


Another helpful tip is that it's much easier to speak in front of people about a subject that you know a lot about, which means that not only should you practice (to the extent you're giving a speech or presentation) but you should make sure you've sufficiently educated yourself on the subject matter. The more you know about the subject matter, the more confident you will be, which will make the process incredibly easier.
Thank you comment icon Contact Mr Yowell to see if he can arrange for you to visit PIMCO to see what they are all about and possibly shadow a person there to get an inside view. Ken Simmons
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Ron’s Answer

Austin, a very good question and extremely important in the business world. I am not sure if you are in high school or college, but I would encourage you to take as much publicly speaking classes as possible. I would also suggest join a debate club/team. These are so important in understanding how to make a powerful and persuasive stance on a subject, idea, thought, product or even your self. Even if you are not in sales, you will be always selling something and even an idea can be an amazing result. With this skill set, your leadership abilities will growth, with people gravitating towards you which will give you the dynamics of being able to motivate people. With that comes success, growth, advancement, opportunity and the ability to give back. Mentor someone as you become successful and pass on your incredible skills and knowledge to others and as you continue to advance, always remember, find and groom your successor to replace you. When you are not afraid to find your replacement, your success and value within any company will be invaluable. Learn how to speak in public, it will make a difference. Good luck with your future.
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