1. Nervousness is fear of failure.
Here is the secret of conquering anxiety. Become
message-centered and audience-centered, not self-centered. Stop thinking of
yourself, and start thinking of your message.
2. If you are thoroughly prepared, your internal nervousness
seldom shows.
Prepare 150%.
3. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse.
Talk out loud, and walk around while you practice. Use the
same physical energy you plan to use on the day of your presentation. Practice
in the car. If you can concentrate while driving, you will be able to pull it
from your unconscious when you are in front of the group. Make your points
sound off-the-cuff and conversational.
4. Practice in front of your mirror.
5. Exercise is an antidote to stress.
Arrive early and take a brisk walk for at least five
minutes. If it is raining or snowing outside, you can still do some body
stretches.
6. Abstain from caffeine and alcohol before you speak.
You don't need more jitters. Always wear your favorite
outfit and use attractive colors. Women, go simple on the jewelry. Avoid too
much black and white.
7. For trembling hands, place your hands on the side of your
chair and count to 10 as you try to lift the seat.
This is an isometric exercise that works... and nobody will
notice you doing it.
8. Don't be perfect - give yourself permission to make
mistakes.
People are not perfect in real life.
9. Remember, you want to be nervous.
It can be a positive reaction. You don't want to eliminate
the butterflies in your stomach; you want to get them to fly in formation. When
that happens, you will have converted your stress into speaking power!
10. Most of all - enjoy yourself and have fun.
