Many of us have experienced stage fright at some point before a major presentation. In fact, millions of people experience anxiety before speaking in public. This fear even has a name: glossophobia.  

So what causes us to enter fight-or-flight mode before a speech or presentation? As it turns out, being put on the spot and feeling vulnerable can cause plenty of apprehension. But have no fear: In this article, we’ll cover some effective tips and techniques to help you feel more confident the next time you find yourself in front of an audience. 

Tip #1: It’s Not About the Performance 

According to Psychology Today, there are two ways to approach public speaking:  

  • Performance orientation, where the speaker views the speech as a performance where the audience judges their skill. 
  • Communication orientation, where the speaker aims to share ideas and connect with the audience as they would in a regular conversation. 

Most of us see a presentation as a performance, which places immense pressure on the speaker to perform flawlessly and heightens anxiety. A speaker with a communication orientation, however, focuses simply upon expressing their ideas clearly. Flipping your perspective in this way will help you feel less stressed and more excited to communicate and engage with your audience. 

Tip #2: Always Come Prepared 

The more knowledgeable you are about your topic, the less anxiety you’ll feel. It’s also useful to prepare your speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end. This helps your audience follow your message and retain information. Be sure to manage your time well and include a call to action at the end of your presentation. The use of visual aids such as slides, charts, and videos can enhance your message and keep the audience engaged, while taking some pressure off you. 

Tip #3 Practice! 

The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel. If practicing with a family member (or pet) doesn’t work, try taping yourself in front of a camera. It’s a good way to see what you’ll look and sound like and how to angle yourself.  

Tip #4: Wardrobe and Body Language 

Besides practicing to feel more confident, there are also ways to look more confident. Some areas to keep in mind are: 

  • Wardrobe: Keep it simple and professional, among other tips. 
  • Good posture: Stand tall! Good posture changes how you appear to others and makes you feel more self-assured. 
  • Vocal tone: Slow down when you speak and maintain eye contact with your audience. 

Tip #5: Know Your Audience 

Is your audience laid-back or serious? Are they younger or older? It’s important to anticipate what the audience will gain from your presentation. Sometimes, you’ll even want to tailor your language to them, as long as it’s appropriate! Lastly, make a note of what questions they may ask.  

Most of us feel nervous when speaking to individuals of a higher status. You may also feel some butterflies if you’re speaking to a new audience or communicating brand new ideas. These feelings are perfectly normal! 

Tip #6: Find the Right Mental State 

Can’t sleep before a major presentation? There’s a reason. 

Our body perceives being vulnerable in front of a crowd as a threat, which triggers the autonomic nervous system. For people who naturally have higher levels of anxiety, this response may deter them from performing or speaking altogether. There are ways to work around this, however. 

Visualize your own success before giving your presentation, such as by writing positive affirmations to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes! Chances are, someone in the crowd had a presentation that day, too, and was feeling just as anxious. You may also want to consider the box breathing method: Inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for four seconds and hold for four seconds. Repeat four times.  

Tip #7: Find More Opportunities to Speak 

The phrase “long-term potentiation” means that the more you repeat an action, the more of a habit it becomes and the easier it gets.  

Tip #8: Find a Mentor 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed despite practicing these techniques, consider a public speaking mentor. An expert can help you find inspiration, challenge you, and help you grow. 

Enhance Your Public Speaking Skills With a Communication Degree 

For those seeking a more formal education, consider The University of Texas Permian Basin’s entirely online Bachelor of Arts in Communication. Our online program provides a comprehensive foundation in persuasive communication in various professional settings. You’ll also gain skills in public speaking with courses such as Introduction to Public Speaking (COMM 1315) and Interpersonal Communication (COMM 1318). Best of all, you can customize this versatile degree with four tracks:  

  • Communication Studies (general track) 

Students graduating with a BA in communication can work in numerous and diverse fields involving public speaking, such as: 

  • public relations 
  • performing arts 
  • news and journalism 
  • events and fundraising 
  • politics 
  • business leadership 

Ready to sharpen your skills, whether in front of an audience or out in the corporate world? Apply here. 

Sources: 
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/nervous-yet-unstoppable-public-speaking-even-when-emma-simpson-cpcc