Lead Lines

Afraid of Public Speaking?

 

Whether giving a keynote address at a conference or leading a sales meeting, managers must master the art of public speaking. This skill does not come naturally for everyone, and some have extreme fear when it comes to standing up and speaking in front of people. The leadersinstitute.com article “Universal Fear” gives the following tips for overcoming stage fright:

1. Understanding that most nervousness does not show. “Most of the symptoms of nervousness — butterflies, sweaty palms, faster heart beat, etc. — never show to an audience,” the author writes.

2. Making notes. Although speeches should never be written down word for word, brief notes can help with nervousness.

3. Memorizing as much as possible. As with notes, the speech should not be memorized word for word, but remembering the main ideas of the talk helps.

4. Arriving early. Getting comfortable with the space, socializing with the audience and testing equipment will help reduce butterflies.

5. Breathing deeply. Sales professionals should remember to send a good supply of oxygen to their brains. This also helps speakers get full sentences out without running out of air.

6. Picking out friendly faces in the audience.

7. Dropping your hands to your side between gestures. It is the most natural-looking stance.

8. Speak on topics you know. “If someone were going to ask you to present about a business topic, the main reason would be because you are the most qualified person to speak about the topic,” the author says.

9. Showing excitement and enthusiasm about the topic.

10. Practicing ahead of time.

“Everyone gets nervous when they present. Exceptional speakers just don’t show it,” the author explains.