Speaking in public can be a daunting task. For some, it comes naturally. Others though would rather run a mile naked in the desert.

Stop stressing every time you have a presentation due. Improve your public speaking now by trying some of these easy tips.

1. Prepare

This is obvious, but what exactly are you preparing? Do not simply sit with your speech and read it over and over again. Instead, prepare in front of a mirror with a stop watch. Aim to go through your speech slower each time. If you read and speak slower you will remember a lot more. In addition, slowing down your presentation shows you have confidence in what you are saying.

2. Dress to impress

What does your dress have to do with speaking? The point is to boost your confidence. If you feel good in what you wear, you will naturally feel better about speaking in public. The tip though is to wear your top class clothing a couple of days before your public speaking debut. Walk around the house, go to the shops or talk to guys and girls at the pub in what you are going to wear. The idea is to make yourself feel confident in what you are wearing.

3. Work the audience

If one of the reasons you battle to talk to an audience is because you are shy in front of strangers, then this tips is for you. How do you become comfortable with a stranger? You make him your friend. Get to the venue early and speak to as many people as you can. During your speech engage with the audience. If you forget what to say or your mind goes blank then turn to the audience. Ask them a question or what they think and then use this time to gather your thoughts and breathe.

4. You are allowed to make mistakes

The audience is not out to get you and unless you rock up without any clothing on, they are not there to laugh. Mistakes and blunders are bound to happen so do not punish yourself for it. Smile, breathe and carry on.

5. Visualisation

The night before when you are reading through the speech, visualise yourself. From walking into the room to introducing to closing the speech visualise everything. Play out the whole scenario in your head.

"There are two things that are more difficult than making an after-dinner speech: climbing a wall which is leaning toward you and kissing a girl who is leaning away from you."— Winston Churchill

 

This article makes me