Glossophobia, or a fear of public speaking, is a very common phobia.The average person ranks the fear of public speaking higher than the fear of death. The truth is, this fear could become an obstacle in your professional and personal life. Despite the fact that the mere thought of public speaking makes some individual’s palms sweat, hearts racing and stomachs reel, it is a vital skill that can help one get up in front of a crowd to present an idea or views, or close a deal.
Remember conquering your fear of public speaking may be as easy as confronting the possibility of rejection.
So, here are few useful tips that would be very helpful in overcoming your public speaking fear.
1. UNDERSTAND THE TOPIC AND LEARN ABOUT YOUR AUDIENCE.
The very first thing is to know about the topic which you have to deliver. The better you understand what you have to talk about, the less likely you’ll make a mistake or get off track. And even if you get lost while delivering your speech, you’ll be able to recover quickly. Analyzing who your audience is another important aspect that needs to be kept in mind. Avoid technical jargons and remember your target audience.
2. ALTER YOUR OUTLOOK AND STAY POSITIVE.
Negative thoughts can hinder your ability to present an amazing speech and the knowledge you have. Instead of letting negative thoughts prevail, turn those thoughts into positive ones. For that you can meditation and breathing exercises.
3. APPROPRIATE PLANNING.
Carefully plan the information you want to present, including any props, audio or visual aids. The more organized and planned you are, the less nervous you’ll be. Not only the speech but you should also plan everything from what to wear and how to dress well. And present it with confidence.
4. BREATHE DEEPLY, SMILE AND STAY HYDRATED.
Breathing is a great component in delivering speech. The oxygen you inhale helps you to stay calm and focused. Smiling makes you to stay positive and happy while water keeps you energized. This will also make your audience feel at home and positive. Eventually making your task or public speaking interactive and successful.
5. PRACTICE YOUR SPEECH AND RECORD IT.
Rehearsing Your speech and recording it helps you to analyse your body language and the tenor of your voice. This will help you to figure out the necessary adjustments needed and will boost up your confidence more. Mirror is your best friend for this activity.
6. PAY ATTENTION TO FILLER WORDS.
Filler words are the noises and the words you say while you are processing your thought and don’t know what to say next. For example: Words like “umm”, “ahh”, “errr”, “like”.These are also symbols of anxiety. Getting more comfortable with the silence will help in reducing the use of filler words.
7. DO NOT OVERTHINK AUDIENCE REACTION.
There is always someone in the audience who seems uninterested, busy with the phone or yawning.
Remember, there will always be some people who are bored and tired. This should not let your moral down. Avoid looking at that particular person and carry on with your speech. Be comfortable.
These tips if kept in mind and followed can pave a way for wonders to happen.
You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart’.
– John Ford
So just speak your heart out and say what you believe!!
