Public speaking is very high up on people...apos;s list of the things they fear most. It is very daunting to have to make a presentation to a room full of strangers, but you can overcome performance anxiety (public speaking) and learn to do a good job of it.
The first and most important thing that you need to do to overcome performance anxiety (public speaking) is to be confident with what you are talking about. If you have to give a work presentation, then ensure that you are fully prepared and you have practised what you want to say over and over. If there will be a question and answer session, then you should try to predict the type of questions that will be asked and have a response ready. You do not have to memorize your presentation and answers by heart, but have the key point accessible.
A visual prompt such as a PowerPoint presentation or flip chart is also a great way to stear attention away from you and onto something else. Having a visual cue will also prevent any stage fright and forgetfulness. This can be extremely helpful for taking the pressure off.
It might be helpful to have something in your hands that can make you feel less lonely at the front of the audience. A board marker or a control for the projector can be great tools for adding confidence. This works in the same manner as a child...apos;s blanket or soft toy works.
Depending on the type of presentation you have to give it can be a great idea to get the audience participating immediately and take the focus off yourself. An icebreaker at the beginning of the presentation where the audience needs to interact with each other can take some of the formality off the situation and put you and them more at ease.
Performance anxiety (public speaking) is very common. Nevertheless throughout our lives we will usually be called upon to give presentations and it is important that you do your best to remain calm and sound confident in front of your audience and peers.
The first and most important thing that you need to do to overcome performance anxiety (public speaking) is to be confident with what you are talking about. If you have to give a work presentation, then ensure that you are fully prepared and you have practised what you want to say over and over. If there will be a question and answer session, then you should try to predict the type of questions that will be asked and have a response ready. You do not have to memorize your presentation and answers by heart, but have the key point accessible.
A visual prompt such as a PowerPoint presentation or flip chart is also a great way to stear attention away from you and onto something else. Having a visual cue will also prevent any stage fright and forgetfulness. This can be extremely helpful for taking the pressure off.
It might be helpful to have something in your hands that can make you feel less lonely at the front of the audience. A board marker or a control for the projector can be great tools for adding confidence. This works in the same manner as a child...apos;s blanket or soft toy works.
Depending on the type of presentation you have to give it can be a great idea to get the audience participating immediately and take the focus off yourself. An icebreaker at the beginning of the presentation where the audience needs to interact with each other can take some of the formality off the situation and put you and them more at ease.
Performance anxiety (public speaking) is very common. Nevertheless throughout our lives we will usually be called upon to give presentations and it is important that you do your best to remain calm and sound confident in front of your audience and peers.
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