The Art Of Public Speaking

Are You Nervous?

People often come to my public speaking workshops concerned that they get anxious speaking in public. They are frequently surprised when we I say, "So what? So do I." Nerves Get To EveryoneYes, even I as an experienced, professional presenter still get nervous, anxious and need to visit the toilet before some presentations!

The Truth About Nerves

The key issue is not whether you get nervous. What matters is what you do with those nerves. Do you let the nerves fire you up or freeze you? Do they give you increased energy or block your energy? Do you use the anxiety to fuel more emotion, passion and clarity or does it bog you down?

Dealing With Anxiety

It is not the anxiety per se that is the problem. It is what you do with it and how you react to it that matters.

Strategies To Reduce Nerves
.Prepare well
.Practice is important. What is even more important is that you practise the right things.
.Good speakers are natural. They speak with animation.
.Vary what you do .It is usually more interesting for an audience if they can't predict what you are going to say next.
.Speak in an interesting voice. Avoid a monotone. Have light and shade in your voice.
. Sound interesting.
.Involve the audience .A passive audience is more likely to become disinterested .

Building Confidence
"I'm going to be fantastic!" The first thing that builds confidence is to prepare your introduction ahead of time. You must concentrate on establishing a positive mind set with reinforcing self-talk.

POSTURE
Approach the audience head up with a calm, confident stride. Balance weight equally, feet slightly spread apart, and lean slightly forward. Face the audience and smile.Relax arms and fingers, arms down by your side until ready to speak.Pause for a moment before beginning Avoid weight shifting, hunching over, body swaying, finger fidgeting, clothing adjustments, and "fig leaf" positioning. GesturesUse gestures sparingly and always from above the waist