Learn as much as you can about the subject you are presenting. Even when Read more memorize your speech, it is good to know facts, figures and even jokes and stories related to your topic. Gauge how your audience is reacting to your speech and use these things in a good way. Also use them to reinforce your speech in questions and answer sessions or follow up conversations. When you arrive at the podium take a deep breath and engage the audience with your eyes and smile. Take a moment to calm your nerves and use your nervous energy as a way to energize your speech. Allow your audience to feel your excitement for what you are talking about. Do not allow anything to distract you while you are speaking in public. It is crucial that you don't participate in activities like twiddling your thumbs or jingling keys. This will give your audience the idea that you would rather be doing something else than be there talking to them. The tone of your speech should depend on who you are giving it to. For instance, if your speech is work-related, your speech should be professional. On the other hand, if you are around friends and have to make a speech, you can be more personal. Base your whole speech on your audience. It is important to give off a confident vibe when giving a speech. Therefore, avoid looking at the floor, ceiling, or your notes too often during the speech. Instead, look into the eyes of your audience. They will realize you are not only confident, but that you have prepared yourself, as well. You should practice your speech repeatedly. You can try recording the speech or practicing the speech in front of your mirror to spot any areas that need improvement. Also, get feedback from friends by practicing your speech for them. Never tell the audience that you're sorry for being nervous or any other issue that comes up. Chances are they didn't even notice in the first place. Even if they do, coming across as lacking in confidence detracts from your position of authority on your speech that you are making. If you are asked to speak about an unfamiliar subject, be sure to make the most of your research time. Study a wide variety of texts, videos and actual examples of your topic. Talk with people who know about it. When you speak, you can choose to talk about your research and share what you have learned rather than attempting to present yourself as an actual expert. Arrive half an hour early for your speaking engagement so that you can familiarize yourself with the room. Determine where you will be during the presentation. Figure out what path you will take to get to the podium. Be sure to have a glass of water placed on the podium. By taking care of these small details, you will feel more comfortable while speaking. Do not indulge in alcoholic beverages prior to delivering your speech. Although you may think that a bit of alcohol will boost your confidence, the results could be disastrous. It would be pretty awful to be all set to make your speech and then realize you forgot everything you were going to talk about because the alcohol has clouded your thinking. Look your audience in the eye. People will trust you when you look them in the eye. This doesn't mean that you should stare intently at them; however, when delivering a speech, let your gaze wander around the room. This technique will help you engage the audience and make them feel comfortable. As you see above, there are many ways to deal with the fear of public speaking. You should look at the tips from above above and find the ones that are suited to the aspect that drives your fear of public speaking. So keep these tips in mind, practice as often as you can and reap the success.
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