Learn English and develop the skill of public speaking. Fear of public speaking is not uncommon and can be managed. Don’t let fear compromise your effectiveness as a performer on the job.
How to Perform Your Best
When you are under stress, you probably experience sweaty palms, dry mouth or a racing heart. Try the strategies below. They are widely used by speakers and actors in the theater.
Fill Your Lungs with Air and Exhale to the Count of 6
Take a deep breath. Make sure your belly is extended outward so that it holds as much air as possible. Hold your breath for a moment and exhale slowly. Count to six and repeat at least six times.
Your Posture Exudes How Sure or Unsure You Are
Stand tall with your back straight, and head held high. Make sure your neck is aligned with your shoulders. Smile. Standing tall and smiling projects confidence. You don’t have to feel confident, but you do have to look confident. In time, how you feel will catch up with how you look!
Expansive Body Language Engages Your Audience
Body language can draw others to you. Expansive gestures, like placing your hands on your hips or extending your arms-palms facing outward-convey presence. Pacing while talking can work in your favor. Take a step to emphasis a word. Unstructured pacing while speaking can distract the audience.
Make Sure Your Title Grabs Your Audience
A good title grabs the reader and creates expectations. If you are introduced by an announcer, make sure your biographical information is relevant to the audience and to your speech.
How to Construct a Great Title
Keep your audience in mind and imagine how they would respond. People read the first two words and the last three words of a title when conducting a search. Use
- the active voice
- sentence structure Stop Climate Change Now!
- strong verbs ‘shout’ instead of ‘say’.
- descriptive adjectives The Brutal Blizzard of ’78
Memorize every Word if You Are a Beginner
Preparation and memorization will greatly reduce anxiety. A winning speech can take up to six weeks to prepare. Aim to practice an hour a day. Take time to revise and edit your work. Rehearse your speech in its entirety three times a day. Good luck!
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