A new way to overcome your nerves about public speaking
Do you struggle with nerves when you have
to speak in front of a group? You are not alone. Up to 75% of people have some
fear of public speaking. Here are nine tips, including one radical new idea, to help you overcome your anxiety
about giving a speech.
1. Read widely and speak with others as much
as possible about your topic prior to your presentation. You will be much more
comfortable if you have more knowledge and experience discussing the
information.
2. Be clear about your audience and the purpose of your speech or talk. Addressing a group of experts will require a vastly different preparation and approach to speaking with those who don’t know much about the topic. Information giving is hugely different to giving a ‘pitch’ for funding. Know your audience and be clear about your purpose.
3. Carefully prepare your speech but don’t memorise it word for word; this can cause havoc if you forget one part and then can’t go on. Use cards with the main points to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
4. Rehearse your speech with a friend, and get them to ask questions or pose issues that your talk brings up.
5. Presentation is important; ensure you look the part and that you are comfortable.
6. Have water with you and make sure you have tested any audiovisual equipment prior to the event.
7. Make eye contact with people who you feel are supportive. This will help keep you calm.
8. Speak slowly. Most people rush at public speaking, which can impinge on how easily your audience can understand you. Take your time.
2. Be clear about your audience and the purpose of your speech or talk. Addressing a group of experts will require a vastly different preparation and approach to speaking with those who don’t know much about the topic. Information giving is hugely different to giving a ‘pitch’ for funding. Know your audience and be clear about your purpose.
3. Carefully prepare your speech but don’t memorise it word for word; this can cause havoc if you forget one part and then can’t go on. Use cards with the main points to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
4. Rehearse your speech with a friend, and get them to ask questions or pose issues that your talk brings up.
5. Presentation is important; ensure you look the part and that you are comfortable.
6. Have water with you and make sure you have tested any audiovisual equipment prior to the event.
7. Make eye contact with people who you feel are supportive. This will help keep you calm.
8. Speak slowly. Most people rush at public speaking, which can impinge on how easily your audience can understand you. Take your time.
9. Finally, try this radical new idea for something that might really make a difference, especially if you can do it more than once. Find a friend who listens well and ask them to give you ten minutes where you can talk freely about how you feel about presenting your talk. Ask them not to give advice, interrupt or reflect (for example, saying 'That’s just like my experience'). The helpful part is having someone who provides a safe space for your big feelings about presenting. Do the feelings you have remind you of anything from your past? Do you have any difficult memories of public speaking? Work through your tensions in this safe space and watch how much more relaxed you are.
Public speaking can become a powerful portal for self development; by looking closely at your feelings you can grow and learn about yourself. If you'd like help with your speech writing, with tips for public speaking, or with working on your feelings about talking in front of groups, contact belynda.smith@gmail.com at Shine Writing. We will be happy to help.
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