Public Speaking

Public Speaking - The World's #1 Fear. Public speakingg is a common source of fear and stress for many people, but what you may not know is that it doesn't have to be. The anxiety we feel when we have to stand before an audience to speak can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take reduce this anxiety.

Common suggestions made for overcoming the fear of public speaking include:

Be well prepared when speaking in public. Not only by knowing your material, but by knowing the room you will be speaking in - get there early and famialirize yourself with the area.
Practice, practice, practice. The more familiar you are with your material, the more confident you will be when speaking.
Reduce your fear in the audience. It is most often the 'public' part of the speaking that causes stress. Reduce this by getting to know your audience, perhaps greeting some as they enter the room, just realize that they want to hear you speak and to see you succeed.

An often overlooked aspect of public speaking is your voice. An audience will not only judge you by your material, your knowledge of the subject and your presentation skills, but also by your voice and how you sound. Indeed, you may have a great presentation, but if you cannot effectively communicate it then what is the point. A clear and confident speaking voice will only enhance the message you are sending your audience.

Voice training with a coach will dramatically improve your speaking skills in public, helping you to sound confident and be confident in front of an audience. All the while losing that fear.

Public Speaking resources & tips on the Web

Public Speaking - how to prepare
This website contains five modules that you can use to learn about the process of public speaking and to help you prepare your speeches.
Public Speaking Tips - speech writing
Your free guide to speech writing and public speaking for eulogies, graduations, best man, father of the bride and any other public speaking engagement.
Public Speaking Anxiety?: Conquer It
Follow these tips from Speak with Confidence: Powerful Presentations that Inform, Inspire, and Persuade and you'll approach your next speaking engagement at ease.
Culture of Public Speaking ( Requires Acrobat Reader )
How to Give an Academic Talk: Changing the Culture of Public Speaking in the Humanities By Paul N. Edwards, School of Information University of Michigan