5 tips to kick your fear of public speaking

Below are a few techniques that you can use to help get rid of your nervousness and anxiety from public speaking.

1. Keep in mind that your nervousness rarely shows: Most of the anxious symptoms that you feel as a result of public speaking rarely show to the audience. Nervousness, butterflies, sweating, racing heart beat, etc., are actually very hard to spot.
2. Don’t Hold your notes: If you worry about the audience seeing your shaky hands set your notes down on the podium.
3. Practice - Being prepared is the number one thing you can do to calm your nerves. Practicing your speech to memory will not only help your nerves, but it will help you make sure that your main points get delivered. Try practicing your speech in front of a mirror or with a friend or loved one.
4. Show up Early: Having time to set up and prepare can help you relax and put your mind at ease. Check your sound system, network with the audience and take a few minutes to relax.
5. Deep Breathing: When people get nervous, we start to take shallow breaths. This type of breathing can actually add to your anxiety and make your symptoms more intense. When you start to get nervous, pause, take a few deep breath, and then continue.