Workplace Challenges
Challenge your fear of public speakingThe task of delivering a presentation or speech can leave many people feeling weak-kneed and perhaps even nauseated. But being able to communicate and present your ideas to others can be a valuable stepping stone to success, and with practice it's a fear you can successfully tackle. |
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 [ 2007-08-01 ] |
"Speaking effectively is rarely a natural talent, but it is one that can be learned," says Beverly Beuermann-King, a certified speaking professional and president of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers.
Like many of us, she dreaded delivering presentations in high school and university. "It wasn't until I made presentations on a topic I was passionate about that the fears began to dissipate," the stress and wellness expert says. "Bad experiences in our early years really colour our views of public speaking."
The first step to feeling confident is to know your subject well and tailor it to your target audience. Keep your message to a few key points. "This is where a lot of pressure comes from," Beuermann-King says. "We want to share all of our information, but the audience doesn't need to be overloaded. A few key points with relevant examples and stories can go a lot further than oodles of facts and statistics."
While rehearsing, figure out any nervous habits you may adopt and come up with strategies to combat them. For example, leaning against a podium or planting your feet solidly on the ground can combat rocking back and forth, while biting the tip of your tongue or having a glass of lukewarm water on hand can beat dry mouth.
Also, avoid caffeine. "Coffee adds stress to our body and that is the last thing we need before we deliver our message," Beuermann-King says. She recommends a couple of neck rolls and deep breathing exercises before delivering your presentation.
Finally, don't aim for perfection. You'll only disappoint yourself if you fall short and may convey that to your audience. "Be authentic. If you make a mistake, chances are nobody else will notice anyway. Most people are cheering you on, not hoping you'll fall on your face," she says.
As a profession, public speaking is typically a second career for those who are experts in their field or have an interesting life experience to share. Ross Mackay, of Ross Mackay Associates, translated years of product training into a successful public speaking business.
He specializes in enhancing the effectiveness of teams and individuals by helping them develop their ideas into reality. Though he felt comfortable speaking in front of others, Ross followed the advice of seasoned professionals and joined Toastmasters International and the Canadian Association of Public Speakers.
Ross believes humour can help make a presentation successful. "It's not just a matter of putting people at ease. People learn better when there's a bit of enjoyment. If you're comfortable, you'll listen better and take away more."
Being an expert in your field doesn't guarantee success as a public speaker. "This is a business that needs to be treated like a business," Beuermann-King says. "You need to be able to market yourself and be solid on the business side, as well have a strong message and speaking skills. It's easy to start in the business, but it's hard to stay in it."
NEED SOME HELP?
If the stress of speaking in public leaves you shaken, nauseated or tongue-tied, you're not alone. But there is help:
- Toastmasters: Members learn speech organization, voice, language, gestures and persuasion; give impromptu speeches on assigned topics, present prepared speeches and receive constructive criticism. www.toastmasters.org
- Canadian Association of Professional Speakers: This organization provides resource and education for experts who speak professionally. The Toronto chapter will present a public-speaking seminar in October. www.canadianspeakers.org
- Aug. 7 is Professional Speakers Day.
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