In many universities, public speaking is an academic requirement. If you are anything like me, and numerous others, public speaking can be scary, nerve-wrecking, or even anxiety inducing. My hopes are that this article will give some helpful tips and tricks to overcome the anxieties of public speaking.
Practice speeches in front of friends.
Having a friend listen to your speeches before giving them can provide a sense of comfort, which could help you be more comfortable when giving your speech. Choosing a friend, or a couple friends, that can make you laugh can also be helpful. Just make sure they can give you constructive feedback!
Memorize key points instead of a script.
You are more likely to forget an entire script. Knowing a number of key points will give you a basis of what you want to say. Depending on the criteria for your speech, you don't necessarily need it word for word. Knowing a key point will make giving, and memorizing, a speech easier.
Use a visual.
Having something for the audience to look at while giving a speech can distract them from looking directly at you. One less pair of eyes on you can make a difference. Referencing your visual can also help to keep you on track with what you want to say.
Fake it.
The phrase "Fake it until you make it" stands true for public speaking. When you fake confidence, to your audience, it looks like you're actually confident. Once you do it a few times, faking confidence can turn into actual confidence.
Don't overthink it.
Yeah, public speaking can be anxiety inducing or scary, but it's something that everyone has to do. Especially if you're in a public speaking course; You're all there, doing the same thing. Everyone has to stand in front of a crowd and give a speech. So, why be nervous when everyone else has to do the same?
My hopes are that this article helps at least one person overcome their fear, or eases someones anxiety. Once practiced multiple times, public speaking becomes easier. I'd also like to thank the students in my own public speaking class for helping me with some of these tips!
