The best way to overcome the fear of speaking before groups of people is to reframe the emotion. By labeling your physical reaction (heart racing, hands sweating, mouth dry) as fear-based, you will struggle to rise above it. You need to reframe …
Fearful of Public Speaking? Start by Doing This! Read more »
There are many tried and tested ways to calm nerves and project confidence when speaking. However, if you want three exercises to convey confidence while you practice long-term nerve-calming, these will always work: Focus on these three key areas to get you …
One-way video job interviews (aka asynchronous interviews) are ideal for employers to screen suitable candidates. The candidate answers pre-set questions which are filmed and watched by the recruiter at another time. The preparation for this style of interview should be …
Professional speakers and experienced presenters have a trick to burn off any nervous energy they may experience before their moment in the spotlight; they work it off physically. They go through a routine of small movements to shake off the …
Transform Your Nervous Energy into Genuine Enthusiasm. Read more »
Our conversational rate of speech differs from person to person. However, in professional and business settings, we should focus on speaking more slowly. A rapid pace can lead to listeners’ mishearing, which weakens the professional message—something to be avoided in …
When giving a presentation or teaching a class (virtual or in-person) start out with a clear idea of the time allowed. Start with a draft of the material you plan to cover. Create bullet points for the key ideas.Decide what material …
We all interrupt others, and others interrupt us; it is human nature. However, if it keeps happening in a business setting (either in person or virtual), you need to deal with it. The most important element is not to become …
There are occasions when a speaker has to work from a prepared script. However, the goal is still to come across as natural and authentic while maintaining good eye contact. To ensure you engage and connect with your audience, follow …
How to Read Your Speech or Presentation and Still Sound Natural. Read more »
To make sure your gestures match your words, think about the words you are using. Many of them will contain information or emotion that you can emphasize with a hand gesture. To get started, think about any wording you will …
Where to Introduce Hand Gestures Into Your Speaking. Read more »
Hand gestures, an often-overlooked part of public speaking, can be the ‘secret sauce’ that spices up your speaking. Speakers who use hand gestures are seen as more agreeable, energetic, and charismatic. Correctly used gestures will draw attention to certain points, …