Public Speaking

Calming Your Anxiety

• The first thing you must do is acknowledge that this fear is perfectly normal and you are not alone.

• According to the Book of Lists public speaking is the greatest of all fears.

Signs of Anxiety

• Sweaty palms• Nausea• Rapid heart beat• Shortness of breath• Chest pains• Tingling or numbness

Relaxation Techniques

• Practice deep breathing• Before a speech, tape record or video tape

your practices• Visualization• Positive Self Talk• Warm-up Routines

Techniques for Nervousness

• Physical:– Walk around; stand; don’t sit with legs crossed– Let your arms dangle at your sides– Shake your fingers– Wriggle your jaw back & forth gently to help

loosen up facial muscles– Scrunch your toes– Yawn– Deep breathing

• Mental:– REHEARSE! The more your practice, the less

nervous you will be.– Ignore it. Do not call attention to your

nervousness by wiping your hands or forehead.– Use visualization– Speak slowly– Be enthusiastic– Focus on your message, not your nervousness

Top Ten Tips

• Get ready: Prior Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

• Think on the bright side• Be aware of your speaking environment• Know your listeners• Warm-up• Realize people want you to succeed

• Don’t apologize for being nervous• Concentrate on your message• Control jitters constructively– Move as you talk– Use gestures

• Gain Experience