Public Speaking is not for everyone I heard someone say, yet part of me tends to disagree. I think we can overcome our fears of anything, by just giving it a try. While it’s true that some people are terrified of frogs (me), and I probably will be forever, it doesn’t necessarily need to be the same when it comes to public speaking. I have a friend that just the mere thought of having to present a speech makes his palms sweat. I guess it is fair to say that public speaking can be terrifying, but it’s honestly not so bad. In this post I will share 5 tips that will help with any anxiety public speaking may cause you.
Keep in mind that it’s normal to be nervous. However, if you practice and properly prepare for your presentation, you will conquer your fears. I’ve been there too and I can still feel my heart pounding and my body trembling. I sometimes feel the adrenaline rushing through my body, yet at the same time making me feel alive and powerful. Nerves can sometimes betray you, but most of the times they will help you succeed.
First you need to trust yourself and let the real you step out. Be yourself, your personality will come through and people will see you for who you really are. Once you have caught your audience’s attention, you’ll feel more at ease. They will trust you and will listen to what you have to say. Begin your presentation strong. Share something extraordinary that will immediately attract your audience’s attention. It can even be something funny to help break the ice.
Second add personal stories to your presentation. People love this, as it is a way for them to connect with you. Stories help your presentation feel more real. Consider this a great tool that will without a doubt allow your audience to connect with you and trust anything that you have to say.
Third add audiovisual aids to your presentation. However, be careful not to over do it. Your audience is there to listen to you and not to be distracted by slideshows or poster boards. Limit your audiovisuals to just a few. Use them as needed to clarify a specific part of your speech or maybe to capture a moment. Thereafter, move on and focus on you being the main attraction to your presentation.
Fourth make sure to prepare a strong conclusion. Make it a point to provide your audience with a summary of the most important areas of your presentation. Then focus on also providing a strong ending. You want to make a statement that will remain in your audience’s mind forever if possible. The key is to make your presentation memorable, not one that will vanish from your audience’s mind the moment you step off that stage.
Fifth and final make sure to practice. Remember that although practice doesn’t always make perfect, you will feel more comfortable. Practice, practice, practice to the point where you know your speech by heart. The key is to be able to use bullets as your guide and not so much a full script that will take away from your natural presence. You can do this! Try applying these few tips and you will see how great your presentation will turn out. I have applied these tips and they have worked great. I know they will work for you as well.
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