Feeling
some nervousness before giving a speech is natural and healthy. It shows you care about doing well. But, too
much nervousness can be detrimental. Here's how you can control your nervousness and make effective, memorable
presentations:
-
Know
the room.
Be familiar with the place in which you will speak. Arrive early, walk around the speaking area and
practice using the microphone and any visual aids.
-
Know
the audience.
Greet some of the audience as they arrive. It's easier to speak to a group of friends than to a group of
strangers.
-
Know
your material.
If you're not familiar with your material or are uncomfortable with it, your nervousness will increase.
Practice your speech and revise it if necessary.
-
Relax.
Ease tension by doing exercises.
-
Visualize
yourself giving your speech.
Imagine yourself speaking, your voice loud, clear, and assured. When you visualize yourself as successful,
you will be successful.
-
Realize
that people want you to succeed.
Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative, and entertaining.
They
don't want you to fail.
-
Don't
apologize.
If you mention your nervousness or apologize for any problems you think you have with your speech, you may
be calling the audience's attention to something they hadn't noticed. Keep silent.
-
Concentrate
on the message -- not the medium.
Focus your attention away from your own anxieties, and outwardly toward your message and your audience. Your
nervousness will dissipate.
-
Turn
nervousness into positive energy.
Harness your nervous energy and transform it into vitality and enthusiasm.
- Gain experience. Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking. A Toastmasters club can provide the experience you need.
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VISIT
A TOASTMASTERS CLUB!
Toastmasters clubs meet in the morning, at noon, and in the evening in approximately 70 countries worldwide. No matter where
you live, work, or travel you are more than likely to find a club nearby. If you'd like to learn more about
joining Toastmasters, follow the
How
to Become a Member link.
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