Public speaking can be scary even to those with the most brilliant ideas. The stakes can feel high, and fear of public speaking may set in with the pressure to achieve the desired results. To help fight stage fright, we have compiled some of the best relaxation strategies before delivering your presentation. These include;
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Rehearse and Prepare
Rehearsing and preparing in advance can be an excellent way to calm your nerves ahead of a presentation. Spend time organising your ideas, getting the best flow, and writing down your talking points. It is essential to practise transitions and flow.
Preparing for the presentation’s opening statement is an excellent place to start. Begin your presentation with something unexpected or positive, as it will set the stage for what will follow. If possible, rehearse infront of your friends or family. You can check your timings and consider the type of questions the audience may have.
It’s advisable to visit the presentation venue before the d-day. This will allow you to check the layout and facilities available. Besides, you will visualise yourself delivering the presentation, thus significantly managing your nerves.
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Stay Healthy
Fear of public speaking can intensify if you’re unwell. Avoid taking alcohol a day before the presentation and engage in strenuous exercise the day or morning before your presentation. The type of exercise you do doesn’t matter as long as you release endorphins and increase your heart rate. Besides, eating healthy can be a great way to eliminate nervous energy.
Here’s what to do when you feel nervous right before you deliver your presentation:
1. Drink Water
Nervousness can result in a dry mouth. Take a bottle or glass of water minutes before the presentation. It’s also advisable to drink water occasionally during the presentation, particularly if you wish to stress a thought.
2. Adopt Effective Breathing Techniques
Taking deep breaths is an excellent way to ensure your body gets the oxygen required. Since adrenaline is associated with shallow breathing, breathing deeply can eliminate the voice quivers that come with breathing irregularly.
Most people overcome nervousness once they start delivering their presentations. However, don’t forget to:
- Smile
- Pause
- Move around
- Maintain eye contact
- Engage your audience
It’s equally important to reflect on the presentation you delivered so that you can calm your nerves better in the future.
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Get Feedback
Experience is one of the best ways to overcome nervousness and ensure that you deliver presentations more effortlessly in the future. If possible, get feedback from your audience after the presentation. Consider negative feedback as a learning opportunity but not a measure of failure.
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Get Help from Pronunciation School
Speaking eloquently is an excellent way to prepare and boost your confidence before you deliver a presentation. At Pronunciation School, we have public speaking courses that will help you pronounce words better to ensure you have outstanding presentations in the future. Apply now to discover more about how we can help you deliver your speeches like a pro!