ALT-14 How to Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking
While many people are gifted with the ability to stand in front of a room full of onlookers, most people find this situation awkward, if not terrifying. However, the skill of public speaking can be learned and even polished to perfection.
Tip #1 -The more often you speak publicly, the more comfortable you will become. Practice makes perfect! The more you practice, the more likely you can leave notes/lecterns behind. A note-less speech is much more desirable than one encumbered by note cards, notebooks, binders, or sheets of paper.
Tip #2 -Ask for feedback whenever possible. There are many facets to the delivery of a speech. You will benefit from any additional eyes and ears that offer advice. Whether its eye contact, hand gestures, nervous habits, intonation, speed of delivery, etc., the more finely tuned your speech, the more confident you will be.
Tip #3 -There is more than one way to impress an audience. Some presenters are experts on the material/subject matter and are able to impress most lay audiences. On the other hand, many presenters can perform well enough to pass off mediocre information in a dazzling way. Don't be afraid to be part actor.
Tip #4 -Be clear as to the point of your message. Your outline should establish a straight-forward strategy for getting the audience to grasp your main point. The audience will not remember the entire speech. Therefore, do what you can to build up and drive your main point home.
Tip #5 -Remember, nobody knows what you are going to say. Only you know when you have forgotten lines, etc. For this reason, you are in the driver's seat.
Tip #6 -All speeches are just a conversation with a large group of people. Be friendly and they will be friendly in return. Any audience will respect a presenter who respects them by knowing who he/she is talking to and matches the content/character of the speech to the listening audience. Conversely, if you speak at them or with a technical language that assumes an air of superiority, you will lose the camaraderie that can work in your favor.
Tip #7 -Do not be afraid to move in front podiums. This may seems advanced for a beginner, but frequently props only impede communication between the speaker and an audience. If you have other props/demonstrations, be sure to practice ahead of time and have that equipment laid out in advance.
Tip #8 -Get comfortable in the room ahead of time. Spend some time where the speech will take place. If possible, practice in the same room. Know how much room you will have to walk, if needed. Will you stand on the floor or on a stage?
Tip #9 -Be familiar with the sound equipment. Know what you will sound like ahead of time. Make adjustments for bad acoustics or electronics. Be sure you will be using a microphone of your choice - with a cord, cordless, headset, lavaliere, etc.
Tip #10 -Have fun! It's your chance to shine!
The fear of public speaking is unnecessarily crippling to many, but, for those who are prepared, it is an exhilarating opportunity to serve an audience with words of encouragement, laughter and, perhaps, wisdom.
