Happy & Healthy

are you terrified of public speaking?

This is how to become a pro

Presenting in front of a big group of people can be one of the most terrifying things that exists. About five years ago when I was still a college kid, I had a panic attack during a presentation and so I sprinted right out of the classroom. This incident has been haunting me for years, but luckily I’ve gotten rid of my fright of public speaking. And I no longer, in the words of May-Britt, have to get hooked onto a vodka IV to beat the nerves.

I’m probably not the only one with public speaking issues, and that’s why I’m here to present you to a mini course of the pro’s.

This is how you present…

…in a room full of people

Being well prepared is half the work. Write down the key points you want to cover on your cue cards so you don’t lose track of what you’re trying to say when you’re presenting. Look at your audience – as scary as it might be – and once you realize you’re starting to rattle: just state it. It’ll make you come across more sympathetic. Use your hands when you’re talking, don’t stuff them in your pants – this looks dull. Another gem: your hair is the best thing for your self confidence. Book a hair appointment, believe me. Best confidence boost you can think of.

…during your best friends wedding

It’s the most important day of her life and the idea that as her maid of honor you have to give a speech is making you spontaneously break out a sweat. Keep your speech concise and no more than 5 minutes long. Don’t drink too much beforehand (two glasses max to calm the nerves) and avoid talking about too many inside jokes that your audience isn’t going to understand. A small tear is okay, bawling your eyes out is awkward. A few embarrassing stories about your bestie is also allowed, but keep them light and they can never be about sex. Lastly: say something about the groom too, he is the guy you’re sharing your best friend with.

”Keep your speech concise and no more than 5 minutes long.”

…during a meeting with your supervisor

Okay, perhaps this isn’t in front of a large group of people, but a lot of people still find this a terrifying thing to do. The tip? Remember that your supervisor is a human too, just like you are. And just like you, he or she is hoping to achieve the best work results. Wear something powerful (read more about the power of clothing here), schedule in a time that your boss won’t be too busy and during the conversation, be polite and keep it pure business.

Don’t turn it into a really long story, a short pitch with a powerful idea focusing on what you’re hoping to achieve. The most important part of all: trust yourself. Once the convo is over, you’ll be proud of yourself. Believe me.

Have a presentation tomorrow but not time to really prepare? Here are 5 tips for a quick confidence boost:

1. Stand up straight. This will make your confidence grow. For your audience too.
2. Smile. Even when you’re almost about to faint from all of your nerves. Try and relax your body.
3. Whatever happens: breathe slowly to calm down any signs of fear.
4. Look for eye contact, especially with someone who has a friendly face. When you can feel your nerves starting to come up, it works looking at that person (not the entire time though, that’ll make it awkward).
5. Don’t forget that the audience wants you to do good too. Try to get your strength out of that. A quote that always works for me? Believe in your inner Beyoncé.