If you've ever had to give a public speech you've probably suffered the symptoms of public speaking fear. Your heart starts to race. You start to sweat and your palms feel clammy. You may start to tremble or shake uncontrollably. Many people feel they're having a heart attack, or are going to faint.
There are a number of things you can do to combat this fear. It's been said that you should imagine your audience sitting in their underwear. This might work for some people, but for most it just makes them feel uncomfortable. So what can you do?
Develop the right Attitude
Public speaking is like anything else - your attitude will determine how successful you will be. If you approach your speech with a negative attitude you'll get a negative outcome. Remember that your audience is comprised of human beings just like you. Don't let worry warp your perception. Go into your speech with a positive attitude and you'll get a positive result.
You Just Need Two Or Three Main Points
All too often people feel they have to give every single fact and figure in their speech. They end up sounding like they're reading an Encyclopedia. This will bore your audience and maybe even put a few to sleep. Pick two or three main points of the topic of your speech and elaborate on them. It'll make your speech more interesting for you and for your audience.
Don't Over Prepare
You don't need a 20 page manuscript to give a successful speech. You don't even need a 10 page outline. Just write down your main points and a few sub points within each main point. If your memory is good you could even memorize these points. Then you'd never have to look down and you'd really impress your audience.
Always Be Yourself
Most people have seen a good public speaker or two. It's only natural to want to be like them. You might stand in front of a mirror copying their gestures and trying to sound like them. It's always better to just be yourself. An audience can spot a phony a mile away, but they will appreciate someone who is honest and real with them. Don't copy, create.
The World Won't End
Don't run disaster scenarios through your mind before you even start to speak. This is a sure way to guarantee failure. Instead run successful scenarios through your mind. Remember that your audience is probably afraid of speaking in public too. They're on your side and want you to succeed.
Public speaking training will go a long way toward overcoming public speaking anxiety. With the correct preparation you can create an enjoyable experience, both for you, and for your audience.
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