Hyderabad, Jan 3 (.) While startups and professionals in Hyderabad focus on funding, innovation, and career growth, fear of public speaking is emerging as a largely unrecognised factor hindering leadership and business success, according to public relations practitioner and public speaking enthusiast D. Ramchandram.
Ramchandram said nearly 90 per cent of professionals avoid leadership roles, promotions, or high-visibility opportunities due to fear of speaking in public, calling it one of India’s most overlooked business risks.
“In today’s economy, ideas don’t fail—communication does,” Ramchandram said. “Talented individuals remain invisible because they cannot articulate their ideas. That invisibility costs careers and businesses.”
Highlighting the growing relevance of communication skills in the startup ecosystem, Hyderabad-based public speaking school Media Junction on Saturday announced a four-day workshop on effective public speaking.
The programme will be held from January 8 to 11at Media Junction’s premises in Parthani Towers, Golconda Cross Roads, in the city.
Ramchandram noted that public speaking has shifted from being a soft skill to a core survival skill, particularly for startup founders.
“Startups don’t fail because of bad ideas; they fail because founders can’t pitch. Conviction cannot be outsourced,” he said.
The workshop, now in its 21st uninterrupted year and the 214th edition, has seen participation from startup founders, corporate executives, lawyers, doctors, IT professionals, sales leaders, educators, and political representatives, many of whom struggle with stage fear despite professional competence.
According to Media Junction Director Kalpana, the programme follows a fully hands-on approach rather than classroom-style lectures. Participants undergo intensive practice in speech writing, impromptu speaking, body language, humour in communication, and structuring presentations for impact.
“We focus on visible confidence within four days,” Kalpana said, adding that each batch is limited to 12 participants to ensure personalised attention.
Ramchandram emphasised that public speaking is a learnable skill rather than an inborn talent. “Speakers become leaders, and leaders are expected to speak.
Growth in business and careers depends on being able to voice ideas clearly and confidently,” he added.
. KNR .