Are You Glossophobic? Here Are A Few Tips To Conquer Your Fear Of Public Speaking

By Brian Maynor

 

Public speaking is probably one of the most dreaded activities ever but it’s a part of life, especially a professional one.

Whether you’re speaking to a small group of team members, presenting at a conference or just on a conference call, there will be times in your life that you have to speak publicly and it would be great if you could keep your voice steady along with your dignity while doing it.

Fortunately there are few things you can do that don’t involve imaging people in their underwear. Here are some great tips to keep in mind before your next public speaking engagement:

1.    This has been a saving grace for me many times. I spend a couple of days preparing the outline of what I’m going to say partly because my biggest fear is drawing a blank the second after being introduced. If feel prepared it’s much easier to keep the fear of embarrassment at bay as you stand or walk to the podium because you know you’re ready.

2.    Warm up your voice. On the way to a presentation call a friend or loved one and just talk to them. It helps calm your nerves and work out some excess energy as well as warm up your voice. When you get to the event talk to attendees. That creates a connection and makes them seem less like strangers.

3.    Think in the third-person. This is a great tip to boost confidence quickly and assuage anxiety. It sounds funny to think of yourself in the third person, but it works because you take the personal element out of the equation. It’s a small change in thinking from “I can do this” to “Brian can do this.”

4.    Just be real. No one is perfect and consequently no one expects to see a perfect performance. In fact, if it’s too slick, too polished and too perfect the audience tends to tune out. Instead we like to see and hear real people and real people make mistakes, stumble over their words, and experience technical difficulties. If this happens acknowledge it and move on.

5.    End Early. It may sound like an exit strategy, but in fact it shows respect to your audience and their time. This also forces you to hone your message. One great way to accomplish this is a question and answer session either on stage or privately off to the side.

While the thought of public speaking may cause your stomach to flip, your palms to sweat and your voice to shake it is an unavoidable rite of passage and part of being an adult, not to mention a professional. So even if you’re a quivering mess on the inside you have to project confidence on the outside.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].  Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

 

 

.