Does speaking in front of a crowd make you nervous? Do you start sweating, shaking or can't sit still? Learn to stay in control when giving a speech or presentation.
Steps
Step 1. Repeat the speech a couple of times alone and then in front of at least one other person
If you can, fill out a bulleted list on a piece of paper to help you remember the main ideas.
Step 2. Practice in front of the mirror if you can't find someone who can help you
Check how you maintain eye contact and if you make any nervous gestures, such as running your hands through your hair or moving your feet.
Step 3. Use objects to support your speech, such as photos, a list of key points or various material supports
When you are focused on explaining the object you will "forget" about the audience and will be less nervous. But be careful and try not to get too fixated on the object as you speak. Keep reaching out to your audience and make sure everyone can hear your voice.
Step 4. Practice in the room where you will be giving the talk, if possible
Knowing the place and knowing how loud your tone of voice must be to be heard by everyone is a good advantage.
Step 5. Find a focal point (or points) in the room just above the audience's heads
This way you won't have to watch all the eyes of the audience stare at you but could focus on a soothing object, like a window with a nice view.
Step 6. Take slow, deep breaths before the speech
Step 7. Put on your favorite dress or bring a good luck item with you
Step 8. Find several people in the audience that you may like and "talk" to them
If they can give you signs of encouragement or a supportive smile, their contribution will be more important than you imagine.
Step 9. If you can move during the talk, plan where you will walk
Choreography will help you not to focus too much on the audience. Also check the various objects around you to avoid bumping or tripping over them.
Step 10. Before speaking, pat yourself on the back or try to encourage yourself in the privacy of a bathroom or some other private place
This way you will be less tense. You could also do exercises to help your vocal cords.
Step 11. Have a healthy meal before the talk but don't overdo the portions
If you are already feeling nervous, having a stomach that is about to burst will certainly not help you.
Step 12. Focus on people's foreheads
It will appear to the audience that you are looking them in the eye but you will avoid seeing any critical or doubtful glances from them.
Advice
- Do not hold a plain blank sheet of paper for your notes while you speak as it will amplify your every little movement and point out if you wobble. If you need some notes, pin them on a card.
- Practice again and again until your speech is natural and relaxed.
- Remember that you will be remembered even more if you stammer or use "er" every sentence than if you deliver a flawless speech. Don't be afraid that the audience might think your speech is awful and try to understand that a lot of people in your class, school etc. they are just as nervous when it comes to public speaking.
- If you are introducing in front of your classmates during a class, try to give the speech first. You should get a better grade because your speech will be the basis for all subsequent ones and if you can be sure of going first you will be pretty sure of your presentation too.
- If you're really nervous, take a little paper clip with you to the stage (or class). Holding it in your hand and folding it will release stress!
- Try to get enough sleep before the event.
