Many studies have shown that public speaking is the number one fear. Indeed, it is no easy feat. I have never been an eloquent speaker, but I have been able to be comfortable while speaking. Here are some tips to be comfortable while presenting in front of a class:
• Practice
• Have confidence
• Begin with a bang
As the authors in Excellence in Business Communication state, “Many things can go wrong in a major presentation”. If you don’t prepare and practice your speech or presentation, you won’t be able to work out the kinks. By practicing, you are aware of what you are going to say, without thinking about it too much. Visualize yourself standing in front of your audience delivering your speech. Practicing will help you build your confidence that your speech is good, thereby eliminating fears.
If you are giving a presentation, have the confidence that what you have prepared is what the audience wants to hear. If you know that the audience will enjoy your speech, it will help to eliminate any anxiety you might have while standing in front of a crowd.
Finally, when the time comes to give your speech, start it with a bang. Many sources say that the first 30 seconds of a speech determine whether or not you have the audience’s attention. You can do this by telling a joke, stating an interesting fact, and many other ways. If you can grab the audience’s attention in the first 30 seconds, it can build your confidence that the practice you have put into this presentation was well worth it. You are on your way to a great speech.
