Public speaking can be a nerve-wracking experience. Feeling a little uneasy speaking in front of an audience is normal. If you are feeling totally terrified and rigid with fear, there are some things you can do. The following public speaking tips will help you nix the nervousness as you entertain, inform, and motivate your audience.
Be Prepared - Memorize your speech. If you need to have notes with you when public speaking to be confident, just have small note cards. Place the cards in the order of your speech and only write down bullet points, not reams of text. The cards will keep your speech to the point. Do not read straight from your note cards, just look at them quickly.
Picture Giving a Great Speech - Practice seeing in your mind your speech going very well. Picture delivering your speech perfectly to an audience hanging on for every word you say.
Get Familiar With the Stage - Visit the location you will be giving a speech beforehand or arrive early the day of your speech. Take the time to get familiar with the stage, sound equipment, backstage areas, and any stairs leading to the stage. Pay special attention to the amount of public speaking space on the stage so you know how much room you have.
Do an Equipment Check - Take the time to check your audio-visual equipment. This includes conducting a sound check, learning to use the microphones, music, projectors, and other public speaking equipment. Also, ensure spare parts are available, such as replacements for burnt out projector bulbs and extra cables. Do not let faulty or broken equipment ruin your speech. Ensure that your audio-visual crew is competent with what they are doing.
Greet Your Audience - If it is possible, take the time to meet with your audience as they arrive. Understanding the nature of your audience will allow you to feel more comfortable when speaking to them. You may even spark some ideas, stories, or jokes to include in your public speaking speech.
Take a Few Minutes to Relax - Take some time before your speech to get yourself prepared. Take some deep breaths and focus yourself. Do not drink alcohol to relax before speaking. Allow your nervous energy to become positive public speaking enthusiasm for your audience and your content.
If Things Go Wrong, Do Not Apologize - Most of the time your audience will have no idea something in your speech did not go as you wished. That is, they will not realize unless you apologize.
Remember That Your Audience Wants You To Do Well - Your audience is excited to hear you speak and they want you to succeed. They want to be informed by you and look forward to an entertaining and informative speech.
