We never really know how scared we are of speaking in front of an audience until the need arises. Experts estimate 75% of the human population have some level of glossophobia (fear of public speaking). Here are 5 helpful tips for beating this fear, and speaking confidently:
Be genuinely interested in your potential listeners. Research their background, worldview and all things knowable. This influences your every word and act, and facilitates emotional connection that sets tone for the desired outcome.
“Speaking without subject knowledge is like a blind leading other blind.” ~Dale Carnegie
Learn all you can about the proposed subject. The more knowledge, the more natural being confident one becomes. Yes it’s serious work, but it pays.
Flesh out your points. Writing them, in longhand, helps. Start with a relevant story or startling fact that’d grab your audience’s attention and connect them to you. Like an artist, craft your message creatively. Be clear and concise with a killer ending.
Internalize your manuscript. But don’t cram it. To ease this process, note key points on a cue card. Then, rehearse! Get folks to listen and provide feedback. Do it again, and again. It’s only a matter of time till it all sinks in.
Take a deep breath. Start! Nervous? Gaze at the forehead of a receptive listener. There is always one in the room. Be yourself! Be audible. Use varying pitches and tones. Gestures are vital. Don’t sweat if you forget anything. Just ride on. And end on a high!
Thanks for reading. Got some more tips? Do share in the comment section.
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