![](https://communicateclearly.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/nervous-300x169.jpg)
Overcoming Nervousness
Here’s what you can do to overcome nerves before you speak in public.
It is natural to be nervous before a public appearance. Every professional entertainer experiences some kind of “butterflies” before a performance. The symptoms are usually a nervous stomach, perspiring, shifting eyes, death grip on chairs . . .
What can you do about it?
- Practice a few relaxation exercises before you go on – rolling your neck, swinging your arms, stretching.
- Take a deep breath, hold it for three-five seconds, let it out slowly.
- Stand naturally with your feet shoulder-width apart, your hands loose and relaxed. Then shake your hands and arms, letting the vibration work itself into the rest of your body.
- Nervousness adds adrenaline to your system – it can make you sharper and quicker – use it.
- Think of nervousness as a way of ensuring that you are “up” for the presentation.
- The best way to combat nervousness is to come prepared for the situation by knowing your subject matter and the major points you need to make.
Where in the World is Anthony?
Speaking in Jacksonville today and tomorrow. Presentation tip 27: Standing still is boring. Move around to keep it interesting. And stop standing behind stuff! (tables, lecterns, chairs, etc.) It disconnects you from the audience.
Worked all day today north of Janesville with a Wisconsin-based contractor. Communication tip 43: Having an unpleasant conversation? Standing at a 45-degree angle can help defuse hostility.
Worked all day today in Philadelphia with a very large national contractor. Virtual Presenting Tip 14: Stop using your laptop. Get an actual webcam and a tripod and put your camera at eye level. A minimal amount of effort and less than $50 makes a huge difference.
Speaking this week in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Illinois. Presenting tip 6: Remove physical barriers that disconnect you from the audience. For live presentations - lecterns, tables, distance, soft voice, etc. Virtual presentations - bad lighting, weird camera angle, etc.
Spent yesterday near Syracuse, NY speaking at a contractor's executive leadership meeting. News interview tip no. 1: Address question 1st, THEN quickly move to your message. Don't be like the politicians who totally ignore the question!