Mark Twain said that there were two kinds of public speakers in the world; those who were nervous and those who were liars. This American author and humorist was acknowledging the varying degrees of fear and hesitation that almost every public speaker inevitably feels before or during his or her presentation. In the modern world, there are many situations that demand some sort of public speaking; whether you are the best man at a wedding, the waitress at a luncheon or the CEO of a major corporation. Others may tell you that picturing your audience naked is the cure-all to the dread of public speaking. However, the following tips are realistic, practical and effective ways to reign in your fear and handle it with poise and grace:
Know Your Stuff
Talk about something you are interested in and know about. If you are not sure of the facts, your insecurity and lack of confidence will show immediately.
Practice
You should know your speech without having to look at notes. If it is particularly long, you should be able to give the presentation with only a few keywords. Never write your speech out, as this will only tempt you to read it. Practicing it in front of a mirror as well as an honest friend or partner is crucial.
Know Your Target Market
Regardless of the context in which you are giving a presentation (e.g. a wedding, party, product launch), know who your audience will be. As they enter the room, greet some or all of them individually, so that you have broken the ice a little.
Get Familiar with Your Venue
Do a site inspection before the time or arrive earlier than any of the audience so that you can become familiar with the room in which you will be presenting. Stand behind the microphone and practice scanning the room with your eyes as you speak and not staring at a particular spot.
Dress Up
With a roomful of eyes on you, it is crucial that you feel comfortable and confident. Make sure your hair, make-up, hands and clothing are clean, neat and appropriate to the occasion. This will take any of your attention off of yourself and will allow you to focus it on the task at hand. It will also not distract your listeners.
Study the Pro’s
Watch good speakers (in real life or on television) and see what it is about them that makes them so accomplished. Look at their eye contact, gestures, facial expressions and manners and try to imitate these as you rehearse your presentation.
Know You’re Fabulous
Imagine yourself giving the speech successfully, do not picture stumbling over words or forgetting entire paragraphs. By getting into the habit of picturing success, you are far more likely to achieve it.
Shhh
Regardless of how fearful you are, do not tell your audience that or apologise for your nerves. This will give them the preconception that you are unprepared or incapable. Before you begin speaking, take a few seconds to remain silent, gather your thoughts, get comfortable behind the microphone or podium and smile at the expectant faces.
Focus
Think only about your subject material and not about who is listening, what comes next, and so on. Speak slowly, pronouncing your words clearly. Maintain eye contact with various individuals as you talk, being sure to scan the room and not stare one or two individuals down.
Time Limit
People have busy lives and occupied minds. Say what you need to say as succinctly as possible. This will help your audience to get the point and will keep them riveted for the entire duration, rather than tiring them halfway through.
And…Action!
Act confident until you are. This will help you to learn how to appear confident and will not let the audience be distracted by your nervousness.
It is important to remember that your audience actually wants you to succeed. They are not willing you to trip or stumble over your words, but are supportive and, usually, interested in your subject matter. If you do make a mistake, apologise briefly and move on, there is no need to make a big deal out of it. In addition, you are likely the only one who feels strongly about the hiccup. Be reassured that, the more presentations you give, the easier it will become.
Photo Courtesy of Bio Screening Online
