To many people, public speaking can leave them paralyzed in fear. Despite the varying levels of confidence and competence, some would still find the thought of speaking before a lot of people as a source of anxiety. This is a condition called glassophobia, and it can hinder you from moving forward.
The good news is that there is a way to overcome this fear. It requires preparation and a good deal of persistence. Today, we will look at some public speaking anxiety tips to help you conquer this hurdle.
1. Know Your Topic
One of the tips to get over public speaking anxiety is to know your topic by heart. It helps your situation when you know the subject you plan to share with your audience as you won’t lose track at all. For instance, if you are to talk about your favorite subject matter, you know each aspect due to how familiar it is.
This will also help when you have situations where your audience will ask questions after the talk. So it enables you to answer promptly.
Wondering how you can provide insightful answers to their questions? You can check these tips to find out how.
2. Slow and Deep Breaths
One other method you can try is to calm your nerves and your senses. Take deep breaths at a slow pace. Doing this should help you calm down before starting.
This slows down your heart rate and makes it easier for you to think clearly. Use the time to gather your thoughts and prepare yourself for your speech.
3. Know Your Audience
Knowing who will sit before you as you speak can help you in your preparation. Once you know who your audience is, try to take on these factors.
First, find ways to engage the audience or to catch their attention. What you want is to see if they respond and absorb what you share. You can do this with quick questions or ice breakers.
Second, prepare for questions. When they ask questions, you can go with brief and straightforward responses.
4. Visualize Your Success
Another item in this list of tips for managing public speaking anxiety boils down to mindset. You need to clear your doubt and visualize your success. You have to picture in your mind that the presentation will go well.
5. Get Support
During your preparation, you need people to support you. Get family or friends to watch you as you practice. Get tips from circles and clubs focused on public speaking for some tips in public speaking.
At the event itself, having a friend watch you can help you practice your eye contact. It should help you ease your nerves.
Overcome Fear With These Public Speaking Anxiety Tips
These public speaking anxiety tips highlight preparation and proper support to help you overcome this hurdle. Once you manage your anxiety and fear, you will be able to march without worry. Being able to operate despite fear is the definition of courage.
Do you want to overcome your other issues with public speaking? Check out more of our guides to learn how you can improve your public speaking skills today.
