How To Avoid Nervousness Before Speaking

Not everyone is born a great speaker, and not everyone becomes one. So, it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about speaking in public. Even organizing a small meeting for a group of 3-5 people can easily trigger panic.

Here’s a little secret to help boost your confidence: everyone — whether experienced or new to public speaking — gets nervous before a presentation. The difference is that experienced speakers follow a set of specific rules, and that’s why they succeed. AdmiGram.com will share those secrets with you.

How to avoid nervousness before speaking

Rule #1: Visit the restroom

Take a moment to freshen up and take care of any needs. Adjust your tie, fix your hair, apply makeup, etc. This way, you’ll feel confident knowing that nothing will distract you during your presentation.

Rule #2: Check the venue, projector, and microphone

Make sure you understand the seating arrangement, how to operate any necessary equipment, and how to use the microphone provided. If you’re unsure about anything, now is the time to consult a tech specialist. You need to be confident that a malfunctioning projector or a turned-off microphone won’t disrupt your presentation.

Rule #3: Engage with the audience informally

This is an amazing technique that builds rapport and boosts confidence. Greet as many audience members as possible before you get on stage. Say hello, smile, and shake hands with people in the room who are waiting for your presentation. You will earn the trust and goodwill of the audience before you even say a word. This also helps you acclimate to the room, relax, and feel more comfortable, reducing your fear of the crowd.

Rule #4: Breathe in, breathe out, focus

Take a few deep, slow breaths. Breathe from your stomach — stress can cause tension in the chest and neck muscles, but a series of deep breaths will help release that tension. Slow, deep breathing will also oxygenate your brain, lower adrenaline levels, and help you feel calmer and more confident.

Rule #5: Prepare your opening

Whatever you plan to start with — whether it’s a memorable quote, a personal story, or a joke — rehearse the first few lines in your mind. Knowing exactly what you’ll do in the first minute of your presentation will help you avoid freezing up or forgetting your lines, allowing you to make a confident first impression.

Rule #6: Think positively

Your thoughts influence both your mental and physical state. By eliminating negative images and worries, you’ll feel more at ease, which will help you behave more naturally. Stop thinking about how nervous you are — instead, repeat to yourself phrases like “I am calm and composed” or “I am an expert on this topic.”

Rule #7: Smile

Smiling, even if forced, can improve your mood. Before stepping on stage, find the “right” facial expression. Not only does a smile positively affect your well-being, but it also shows the audience that you care about them and are friendly.

Rule #8: Drink water and keep it nearby

Add a slice of lemon to your glass if possible. A few sips of warm water will help relax your vocal cords and prevent a dry mouth. Make sure you have the option to take a sip of water during the presentation as well.

Rule #9: Warm up

Take a walk down the hallway, stretch, or do a few squats and bends. This will help you release nervous energy and relieve muscle tension, giving you a burst of vitality.

Rule #10: Stand up 5 minutes before you start

If you’re the only speaker, you’ll be standing anyway. If you are one of several speakers, stand backstage or near the stage about 5 minutes before your turn. Sitting signals passivity, which can be hard to shake off quickly. Standing for those extra 5 minutes will help you get used to it, prepare your body for action, and get you ready for your speech. You’ve got this!

image on top: Teemu Paananen / Unsplash