5 Tips to Ease Public Speaking Anxiety
If the idea of speaking in front of an audience- big or small, in-person or virtual- makes you sweat, you’re not alone. Fear of public speaking is a common phobia among Americans, ranking ahead of heights or even spiders! As a broadcast journalist I was cool and calm on TV, but speaking in front of a live audience was often nerve-wracking. In today’s world, speaking well is the new competitive advantage. According to billionaire investor Warren Buffett, improving your public speaking and communication skills can increase your professional value by up to 50%! If that’s not an incentive to level up your communication game, I don’t know what is. So, here are a few tips to calm your nerves:
- Practice, Practice, Practice
One of the most effective ways to combat stage fright is through thorough preparation. When you’re well-prepared, you’ll have a solid grasp of your material, making you feel more confident and less likely to get flustered. You may have heard the saying “How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.” No one’s saying you have to give a piano prodigy level performance, but practicing your speech will build your confidence and make you less nervous. - Avoid memorizing your presentation
Memorizing your speech can come across as stiff and boring. Furthermore, constantly looking at your notes on an iPad or phone can often add to a sense of nervousness, and frankly lessens your credibility. The best strategy is to have bullet points and paraphrase the most important points in your speech
you want to get across. You’ll appear more relaxed, and your audience will be more engaged in what you’re saying. - Controlled Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Nervousness often leads to shallow and rapid breathing, which can exacerbate anxiety. Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or progressive muscle relaxation, to calm your nerves before stepping on stage. These techniques will help you remain focused and centered, allowing you to manage your anxiety effectively. - Avoid Caffeine and Dairy
Caffeine speeds up the heart rate. Also, avoid dairy products because they make your mouth dry and coat your vocal cords with mucus. Before speaking drink room temperature water to hydrate your vocal cords. Be careful of ice water, it can constrict your throat. You should also avoid sodas. Sugar dries out your mouth. - Have Fun!
Show passion and enthusiasm for what you’re presenting. If you’re having fun the audience will too. Smile, use your hands to gesture. You’re there to make an impact. Enjoy the moment.
Conclusion
Overcoming the fear of public speaking is a journey that requires dedication and perseverance. By implementing these strategies, you can gradually build your confidence, reframe your mindset, and transform public speaking from a dreaded task into an exciting opportunity for personal and professional growth.
