I have to give a 20 minute presentation today. I hate talking in front of a group of people and I am very nervous. Anyone have any secrets on how to cope with the nerves? :unsure
I used to be the exact same way. I'd get very nervous speaking in front of people. Just realize, you're the one who knows your topic. No one else really does. Also, at the end of the day, most people aren't out to make you feel stupid and won't try to pick you apart.
If you are taking questions and you don't know the answer, just say so. Don't freeze.
You'll do fine.
One thing that helps is just practice it in front of a mirror or some people you know over and over. The better you know what to say, the smoother it will go. Also, it might sound cliche but try to slip some kind of joke or show them a cartoon (in your slides) early on. Everyone likes to laugh and it will loosen everyone up - including you.
I find when speaking to a group that I tend to focus on a single person and treat it as if I'm speaking to them directly. I switch around so don't focus on the same person all the time, but it seems to help me focus on what I'm doing rather than simply looking at the 40 people in front of of me and gibbering.
Got to remember to keep the volume up for the entire room though.
I'm not sure it's an approved technique.
Quote from: Feathers on May 14, 2009, 07:55:54 AM
I find when speaking to a group that I tend to focus on a single person and treat it as if I'm speaking to them directly. I switch around so don't focus on the same person all the time, but it seems to help me focus on what I'm doing rather than simply looking at the 40 people in front of of me and gibbering.
Got to remember to keep the volume up for the entire room though.
I'm not sure it's an approved technique.
I believe one of my teachers taught me that technique myself. I'm not too great speaking in public either so basically remember what everyone here has said and you'll do fine.
Also, practice makes perfect. :)
King
Thanks for the advice, my biggest problem I find is that while I am up there talking I run out of breathe! Its like I forget to breathe while I am talking. Anyone else ever experience that?
Quote from: SPOCKFAN on May 14, 2009, 10:30:40 AM
Thanks for the advice, my biggest problem I find is that while I am up there talking I run out of breathe! Its like I forget to breathe while I am talking. Anyone else ever experience that?
Yes, it happened to me all the time, still does up to this day. It means you're talking too fast! Slow down and take your time.
Quote from: SPOCKFAN on May 14, 2009, 05:57:20 AM
I have to give a 20 minute presentation today. I hate talking in front of a group of people and I am very nervous. Anyone have any secrets on how to cope with the nerves? :unsure
Xanax and SoCo
Thanks everyone.