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This how-to guide was created by SpeakersBank This guide has also been edited by WEditor and TomMcHugh
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How to overcome nerves when speaking in public
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CloseThings you'll need
- You
- Your voice
- Your passion
Many people fear speaking in public, but nerves are natural. They never go away completely but the adrenalin produced by nervous energy often adds to the emotional impact of your speech, so make it work in your favour!
Try some of the following tips to help you get the “butterflies flying in formation”.
Understand that your audience wants you to succeed.
They are on your side. They can’t feel the butterflies, the sweaty palms or your shaking knees. They are only listening to what you say.
Practise!
In front of a mirror, at home, in a car or to your friends and colleagues. Hear yourself speak. You could also consider recording your speech.
Remember to breathe
Take some deep breaths before you speak. This will both ease any tension you have and help project your voice. Breathe and stretch!
Keep your opening and conclusion short and simple - and memorise them
This makes you appear confident and authoritative and you then have eye contact with your audience which ensures they listen to you.
Know your material and be prepared
Be ready with facts, figures and examples.
Imagine yourself speaking to a large audience
Picture the room, see the people and hear the applause. Visualise yourself being successful.
Resist the temptation to apologise
The audience will never know if you leave out some of your speech or take things in a different order. Simply use the power of the pause and continue.
Further information
- How to deliver confident presentations
- How to write speeches for the voluntary sector
- Presentation skills
About us
Speakers Trust is a national charity that specialises in public speaking training. We exist to support those working in the not-for-profit sector and/or the beneficiaries of the not-for-profit sector to help all to communicate effectively, with passion and conviction as well as supporting those that need encouragement to find their voice.
We deliver in-house training workshops, and hold Open Workshops at our offices.
There's plenty more Tips and Techniques for Public Speaking available on the Speakers Trust website.
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