Anyone can be trained to become an effective public speaker. I am going to reveal five important techniques that you can apply to make your public speaking career a positive experience.
1. To control fidgeting; slowly deep breath to take away inner tension and negative energy. Breath out of your mouth. As you breath out, repeat the word "calm" within your mind. This is a very powerful technique, that always work! If you are using a lectern, don't go straight for the glass of water. Your first sip of water will tighten up your throat and some members in the audience will pick up on your nervousness. Here is another technique that always work; as you are being introduced to the audience warmly smile at the presenter and at the audience. Agreeing with what is said about you to the audience will ease inner negative tension. Amazingly, the audience will send positive energy to you even before you begin your speech.
2. Avoid overly pacing yourself. This is a sure sign that you are seriously nervous! Pacing increases blood flow to the heart and this usually raises your stress level. If seating is available take a seat. But for the love of God, don't shake your legs! Avoid blowing into the palm of your hands. Gently close your eyes and reflect on your speech. Think of your first opening statement. This is your Ice Breaker! If your voice seems to be rattling, don't apologize for being nervous.
3. Arrive early for the event. Get a first-hand feel of the room or area where you will speak. If you are given a room to relax, play a relaxation CD specially made for speakers. Relaxation CDs can be purchased any where. These CDs have been tested over and over and its success rate for speakers is astounding! You can even play this CD in your car, on the plane, bus or the train on your way to the event.
4. Divide the audience in zones or clusters. This strategy always work. When your divide the audience into zones or clusters you are also working on your body language technique. Here is an amazing finding; only 7% of your words will be retained, 38% of the audience will connect to your voice and a whopping 55% of the people will connect to you through your nonverbal communications; gestures, hand movements, etc.
5. Rehearse, Rehearse, and Rehearse! Practice your speech until you are comfortable with the main points. Don't be overly hard on yourself. Lighten up! Remain calm and confident that you will deliver the content you have. Note: it is also a good method to rehearse out loud in front of a mirror. If there is a question and answer moment; make sure you get your facts right. Reliable source is vital since you may have to quote data, dates and other technical information.
According to a recent survey, Americans rate their top fear and it is speaking publicly before a group! No one wants to appear like a fool before an audience. That is why these points are vital to everyone.
Overcoming Stage Fright