Do you get goosebumps when you have to speak in public? Do you get butterflies in your stomach before speaking to a group of people? Do you feel intimidated when you walk into a roomful of strangers? If so, you’re not alone. Social anxieties and the fear of being judged are extremely common. I used to suffer from social anxiety and I never thought I could get over my fear of public speaking but facing my fears and joining Toastmasters was the #1 thing that has helped me overcome social anxiety.
The good news is that the fear of public speaking can be treated. If I can do it, anyone can do it. There are some effective public speaking tips that can help you conquer your fear of speaking in public.
It is quite natural when your heart races and you can feel butterflies invading your stomach before a public presentation. Incidentally, public speaking tops the list of phobias for most people. The very thought of standing up and facing a sea of unfamiliar faces is daunting for many. Your hands may sweat or your mouth may go dry. Your knees shake and you shiver and quiver. As a matter of fact, it is less normal to not have nerves or anxiety. The question is how do you speak naturally when everyone is watching you? How do get your message across in an interesting and compelling way? Public speaking tips come in handy in a scenario like this.
Public speaking is all about connecting with your audience. It is about striking the right chord with your audience.
Here's a list of useful public speaking tips that can impress your audience and skyrocket your self-confidence:
-Eye contact with your audience is a must. It helps you establish a bond with your audience. Both the parties feel connected.
-Be prepared. It is highly recommended that you prepare well before you get down to delivering your speech. It will help you avoid embarrassing instances. Understand that it is okay to make a few mistakes, provided you learn from them. Don't torment yourself, berate yourself or run imaginary embarrassing conversations in your mind. Don't think of getting off the stage as quickly as possible. Get over the nagging thought that others are going to judge you. Only then will you be able to speak assertively and confidently.
-Bring out your sense of humor. You can share interesting anecdotes or jokes if the topic allows you to do so. Avoid using cheesy, corny punch lines.
-Master the art of interesting storytelling. Blend your speech with real, personal experiences to infuse life into the material you are delivering.
-Be vulnerable. By sharing something that you struggle with or something that you managed to overcome is a good way to connect with your audience. Many people are struggling with the same things as you, but might not have the courage to talk about it.
-Take note of your gestures. Another thing to remember is the usage of your arms and hands through gesticulating during your speech. Gesticulating can have an amazing impact in public speaking as it helps emphasize a public speaker's point.
-Inflection and volume are as important. The tone of your voice reflects your passion. Try to change it from time to time to keep your speech interesting and entertaining.
The above-mentioned public speaking tips can make a huge difference if you follow them consistently. It will help you conquer your fear of public speaking the next time you are required to speak in public. You can effortlessly master the art of public speaking. Shed all your inhibitions of public speaking. Don’t let it interfere with your everyday life!
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