How to Overcome Nervousness Before a Speech

Tips for Handling the Stress of Public Speaking

Apr 21, 2009

Public speaking is an excellent way to build professional credibility. It can also be a major source of stress. Here's how to de-stress before stepping up to the podium.

Even experienced speakers and presenters don't need a clock to tell them that the time is drawing near: The slightly unsettled stomach, the sweaty palms, the racing heart... all reminders that it's time to make that speech or deliver that presentation.

Smart speakers take comfort in these physical signs of nervousness. First, because they are completely normal reactions to stressful situations. Second, the absence of these signs might mean that the presenter is feeling a little too comfortable, perhaps even overconfident. When that happens, there's a real risk that the speech or presentation flops.

This is not to say that focusing on these nervous symptoms is a good way to prepare for a speech or presentation. Instead, it's important to be aware of them and put that nervous energy to work to ensure a successful outcome. Here are a few tips for doing so:

Fantasize

Many of the world's most successful executives are big believers in the power of visualization. They don't just set a goal; they imagine what it will feel like when they achieve it. So go ahead: Fantasize. Picture making a great first impression. Imagine the nodding heads and of an audience completely immersed in the talk. Hear and enjoy the enthusiastic applause at the end.

Dress Comfortably

The day of a speech or presentation is not the time to break in or experiment with a new pair of shoes or suit. Wear clothes that look good and, as important, feel good.

Watch the Game-Day Diet

Most people feel actual physical stress on the day of an important speech or presentation, so it's important to help the body adjust to that stress. Go on a one-day health kick. No midnight snacks the night before. Eat lightly at any meals before your presentation. The adrenalin will be pumping plenty of energy, so cut back a bit on the usual intake of coffee or tea. And no alcohol... period.

Scan, Don't Cram

Don't spend every moment before a speech or presentation reading every word. Scan any notes, focusing on the key words that represent the presentation's major point. Memorizing a speech or presentation word-for-word is dangerous, because forgetting a single word or phrase can lead to temporary and devastating memory loss of the rest of the speech.

Listen

Another excellent way to deal with nervousness is to record the speech or presentation, and then listen to it while driving or flying to the presentation. The idea here is, again, reinforcement, not memorization.

Check and Double-Check

Many presenters are so focused on their words that they forget to check some of the factors that have a tremendous impact on the success of a speech or presentation. Top speakers check out the room they will be speaking in, the sound system, and acoustics. If they have visual aids, they check all equipment. Being reassured that everything is in order will help avoid the nervousness-the panic, more likely-that accompanies a glitch in the sound system or audiovisuals.

Enjoy

A speech or presentation is an excellent way to enhance one's professional visibility, credibility and stature. So make a commitment to enjoy the process. That attitude will translate into a relaxed, professional demeanor that will help ensure a successful speech or presentation.

The copyright of the article How to Overcome Nervousness Before a Speech in Career Advancement is owned by James King. Permission to republish How to Overcome Nervousness Before a Speech in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.