How to Conquer the Fear of Public Speaking

Can the very thought of giving a speech cause you to break into sweat? Many people, when asked to stand in front of others, can suffer from anxiety in many forms, even panic attacks.

Some studies have concluded that many people are more afraid of public speaking than death!

However, it may be hard to avoid giving some sort of speech in many situations.You may as well sharpen your speaking skills since there are always times when you might have to stand up and speak at community gatherings, business proposals or even family events.

It can be extremely beneficial to learn to speak in front of a crowd. Getting past your fear of public speaking can lead to many benefits like better relationships, a position as a community leader or even a raise at work.

Here are the top five reasons why people fear public speaking:

  • Fear of failing
  • Lack of confidence
  • Feeling vulnerable
  • Fear of being judged
  • Unpreparedness

It is not an impossible task to conquer your fear of speaking in front of large crowds, although it will certainly take some time and practice.

You can boost your confidence about public speaking by following these tips:

1.Get prepared.Plan out your entire presentation. Visualize your speech being a success as you choose the desired results.

2.Familiarize yourself.Get to know the space where you are going to be speaking. Get to know the seating layout, the staff, the room's features, the stage and even the microphone.

3.Relieve your nerves.You should be focusing your energy on your speech and not on your nerves as you enter the room.You can relieve your tension just by taking a few deep breaths.

4.Personalize.Imagine that there is just one person there and that you are having a conversation with him or her. This will make your colleagues see your presentation as more personal.

5.Look into your audience eyes.You can create a much stronger connection with the audience by looking them in the eyes.Just like  you are speaking directly to each one, make eye contact with one person at a time.

6.Move around.Get out from behind the podium when speaking. The podium could be perceived as a barrier between you and the audience.Move about on stage or stand beside or in front of the podium when speaking.

7.Get to know your audience.Before giving your presentation, research your audience. Knowing more about who is going to be in the audience makes you even better prepared.

8.Think positively.If you are asked questions, stay positive. Whatever you do, don't fake knowledge if you don't know an answer. Be honest and tell them you don't know at this time, but will be sure to find the answer.

9.Accept invitations to speak.No matter how nervous the invitation to speak may make you, always accept the offer. Always remember, practice makes perfect!

10.Get a coach.Have a coach help you sharpen your public speaking skills before the day comes. With the increased confidence you will get from this personal guidance, you will leave your fears behind.

Learning to give good speeches doesn't have to stress you out.By simply taking these tips to heart and apply them in your life, you will develop a very strong set of skills that will unlock a multitude of new opportunities in your personal life.