I have some awful, terrible news for all of you out there: the internet is absolutely destroying the lives of average and mediocre speakers. Let’s face it, there used to be a time when as long as you could get over your nerves and speak up in front of people by going through some points, it was good enough as the expectations were lower. Unfortunately, the internet has destroyed this.
More and more people are used to looking at quality speakers online, especially at TED. You go to TED and see someone give a speech on how to use a paper towel to dry your hand or tie your show- things that seem so mundane and simply impossible to give an interesting speech about- and yet they do it and even bring tears to your eyes.
The internet is bringing up the standards for all of us. So if you are looking to compete in the modern world, you must bring up your skills. And this applies to every industry and field of life, not just public speaking. People can compare and review your service and your skills for everyone to see.
You may be near the end of career, but it is never too late to up the standard of your skills and really participate in the competition.