How to Overcome Nervousness While Speaking Before an Audience
Public speaking is part of the job description for people such as preachers, politicians and teachers. For others, the need to speak before an audience comes along occasionally, such as when giving a toast at a wedding reception, an office presentation or a committee report. If these experiences fill you with dread and anxiety, don't give up on public speaking. Instead, work on a few strategies that can help you overcome nervousness and make public speaking more enjoyable.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Research your topic thoroughly before giving a speech. Being knowledgeable about your topic will build your confidence. When the topic is your choice, select a subject about which you are passionate, as the audience will notice your excitement.
-
2
Practice your speech so you can give it from memory, if necessary. There may be occasions when it is necessary to read a speech. If possible, though, use an outline. When you practice, imagine yourself in front of the audience. Rehearse gestures to avoid making nervous hand movements during the speech.
-
-
3
Wear professional and comfortable clothes. Even before you speak, the audience will be watching you. Make a positive visual impression with good posture, a relaxed demeanor and appropriate clothing. In your interaction with guests before the speech, smile and introduce yourself. Smile again at the audience when you get up to speak. This not only helps the audience relax, but it can make you more comfortable. If you can incorporate a few laughs into your speech, you might find you actually enjoy speaking and forget about being nervous altogether.
-
4
Prepare your voice before the speech by taking a drink of water, humming softly, taking a deep breath and lowering the pitch of your voice. During your presentation, intentionally pause during transitions. Keep a bottle of water handy and occasionally take a drink. This will help you slow down if you have a tendency to talk fast when nervous and will also ease a dry mouth. Write reminders in your notes to speak slowly and take a drink of water.
-
5
Make eye contact with the audience. See them as individuals who are truly interested in what you have to say, not as a mass of people staring at you. If you have difficulty making eye contact, start by looking close to a viewer's eyes, such as at her hairline or nose. Look around the audience during your speech, rather than focusing on just one part of the audience.
-
6
Take a class or workshop offered at work, school or in your community to improve your public speaking skills. An organization such as Toastmasters gives members opportunities to practice speeches and get helpful critiques.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
