The words public speaking strikes fear and anxiety in the
minds of otherwise competent and confident people. Does the thought of speaking
in front of a group evoke fear, make you sweat, starts your heart pounding?
It's likely you have glossophobia - the fear of public speaking.
Glossophobia is the most common of fears. There are many
ways to increase business exposure so why bother to overcome your speaking
jitters? Stepping up to the podium not only positions you as an expert in your
area of business but provides effortless referrals and improved sales
opportunities.
Presenting a non-sales informative speech warms up your
target market and builds trust. Unlike endless cold calls the people you
present to and follow up with are more receptive to listening to your offering
of products and services.
Overcome your fear of public speaking and boost your
business with these 7 tips:
7 Tips to Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking
Start Small: If you're new to the world of speaking, start
small. Find a few friends and family to practice on. Begin by speaking to
smaller groups and build up from there.
In my business speaking career, I speak to groups of 30 to
3,000. One discovery I made is the size of the audience makes no difference. If
you know your topic, you're pre-speaking fear will quickly evaporate.
Prepare: Nothing helps ease the fear of public speaking than
knowing your material. The ability to connect with your audience comes from
having the confidence you won't get lost during your delivery. Rehearse several
times before the big talk. Time your presentation and always have back up
material in case time is left over.
Don't Memorize: Mastering the art of public speaking comes
not from memorizing word for word your entire speech. The real pros know their
material by remembering key points and prompts on sub topics and examples to cover.
