Others have offered some great tips, but the one I find most effective is to recognize that if I feel afraid it is because I am focused on myself (how will I look, what will people think of me, etc.).
So, before speaking to a group, I consciously move my attention to being in service to others (what does the audience need, how can I be of highest service to them, etc.). This has an immediate calming and humbling effect and has always led to the best results.
This may or may not work for others, but it has been the best method for me. :)
Whenever we go before an audience, our natural inclination is to focus on ourselves, 'How do I look? Will they like me? Will I make a mistake and make a fool of myself?'
One of the things that took time for me to embrace, but has made a difference is to take the focus off yourself as the speaker and focus on your audience. Focus on the value you're bringing to them and connect with one person at a time.
The answer might be funny or even shocking to you.
1st prepare, 2nd rehearse in front of a mirror and record yourself with your mobile phone ( if your cloud), Practice makes perfect ( Q card helps ). You can use Google Hangout and practice that with a friend ( hangout video conferencing can handle up to 10 people )... Now the shocker - As you stand in front of the public scan them from left to right, close your eyes and imagine, they are all wearing only their underwear. Then naturally, you smile and then start. Use your hand and body to transfer the presentation energy to audience ........For some reason, this works.
Be prepared... know your content. Think of the worst case scenario and realize if you freeze or go blank you still have your presentation to ground you and follow. Practice breathing. Once you get a few under your belt you'll feel better.
Look at why you are afraid. Because others have knocked you down in the past? Because you don't feel like you have what it takes to advise others? Because you might make a mistake?
Now consider how you have perceived others speakers. Do you forgive the speaker for their issues when you notice them? If yes, then you have nothing to fear. If NO, WHY NOT! We are all in the same boat trying to make a difference. You wouldn't forgive my mistake?!? REALLY? Even if I'm arrogant and all full of myself -- like right now. Hehehe. :) Forgive me... I AM trying to make a difference. :)
Just know that what you bring to the table may be EXACTLY what ONE person needs to hear. Trust that. Move on and trust yourself. Be the person who brings it.
There’s nothing for it except to do it. And do it as often as possible. But equally important, read, read, and read. It doesn’t matter as much what you read but read! A large percentage of our culture has lost its economy with vocabulary. Reading helps you command the situation and thereby provides a strong sense of confidence which you can use to “feel” as though you’re speaking authoritatively. Your listeners will be impressed with your eloquence.
In addition you might search for a toastmasters club in your area. Joining this club will provide ample opportunities to hone your speaking skills in a friendly and safe environment.
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Answers (1-10)
Others have offered some great tips, but the one I find most effective is to recognize that if I feel afraid it is because I am focused on myself (how will I look, what will people think of me, etc.).
So, before speaking to a group, I consciously move my attention to being in service to others (what does the audience need, how can I be of highest service to them, etc.). This has an immediate calming and humbling effect and has always led to the best results.
This may or may not work for others, but it has been the best method for me. :)
Whenever we go before an audience, our natural inclination is to focus on ourselves, 'How do I look? Will they like me? Will I make a mistake and make a fool of myself?'
One of the things that took time for me to embrace, but has made a difference is to take the focus off yourself as the speaker and focus on your audience. Focus on the value you're bringing to them and connect with one person at a time.
The answer might be funny or even shocking to you.
1st prepare, 2nd rehearse in front of a mirror and record yourself with your mobile phone ( if your cloud), Practice makes perfect ( Q card helps ). You can use Google Hangout and practice that with a friend ( hangout video conferencing can handle up to 10 people )... Now the shocker - As you stand in front of the public scan them from left to right, close your eyes and imagine, they are all wearing only their underwear. Then naturally, you smile and then start. Use your hand and body to transfer the presentation energy to audience ........For some reason, this works.
Be prepared... know your content. Think of the worst case scenario and realize if you freeze or go blank you still have your presentation to ground you and follow. Practice breathing. Once you get a few under your belt you'll feel better.
Join a Toastmasters group in your area
Join a Toastmasters group and learn everything about giving your best presentation. Great networking opportunity as well.
Rehearse out loud and show up early and mingle.
Great tip, I don't know. It is just my opinion.
Look at why you are afraid. Because others have knocked you down in the past? Because you don't feel like you have what it takes to advise others? Because you might make a mistake?
Now consider how you have perceived others speakers. Do you forgive the speaker for their issues when you notice them? If yes, then you have nothing to fear. If NO, WHY NOT! We are all in the same boat trying to make a difference. You wouldn't forgive my mistake?!? REALLY? Even if I'm arrogant and all full of myself -- like right now. Hehehe. :) Forgive me... I AM trying to make a difference. :)
Just know that what you bring to the table may be EXACTLY what ONE person needs to hear. Trust that. Move on and trust yourself. Be the person who brings it.
There’s nothing for it except to do it. And do it as often as possible. But equally important, read, read, and read. It doesn’t matter as much what you read but read! A large percentage of our culture has lost its economy with vocabulary. Reading helps you command the situation and thereby provides a strong sense of confidence which you can use to “feel” as though you’re speaking authoritatively. Your listeners will be impressed with your eloquence.
In addition you might search for a toastmasters club in your area. Joining this club will provide ample opportunities to hone your speaking skills in a friendly and safe environment.