Overcome the fear of public speaking

Public speaking in simple term is the art to talk with masses. There are people with various speech habits. Some people do not like to talk while some are really talkative. But when it comes to public speaking, even talkative ones keep mum. This is really ironic and yet common.

I have participated in various competitions and have given several presentations in my academic life. One thing I want to tell you is: There is nothing to fear about.

Why public speaking is important?

You will encounter events where you will have to communicate with masses many a times. Some times it would be possible to avert it but not always. Unable to communicate well will push you on back foot. Be it the academic projects or the meeting with board of directors of some company, public speaking is inevitable. So rather than trying to run away, it is far better idea to learn the skill.

Things that can help you feel confident:

You can do it! : Start believing that you can do it and you have won half of the battle. Biggest obstacle in public speaking is psychological one. If you can speak, you can communicate with masses well.

Prepare the subject well: If someone who ask me to talk about using Google for education I can talk endlessly for hour or even more. But if someone asks be to talk about the cure of cancer, I would not have much to speak. I would obviously fear because I don't know anything about it. 

Use presentation aids: If you are afraid of forgeting the points, you may use power point or similar tools so that you can capture audience attention and use it as a tool to recollect the ideas. You may simply use the chit of paper to jot down the ideas. Don't worry about what people would think. They can understand that. Had you been in the audience, would it really matter to you if the speaker is holding the chit of paper or not? I bet NO. What matters is the articulation and quality of speech.

Visit the venue at least half an hour before your speech. This helps you to get comfortable with the place.

Talk: Genuinely feel comfortable and give your speech as if you are talking with them. Involve your audience if possible. That keeps them active and gives them the sense of importance. Just imagine how would you talk with the group of your friends.

Speaker has an edge: Usually audience always believe that person who would be speaking from stage would be the one who is knowledgeable and smart. They have a positive impression about you even before you appear inform of them. Use it at your advantage.

Have you ever delivered a speech? Share your tips and experiences in comments.