Public speaking is a skill, not a talent. Anyone can master it with practice and the right approach.

Understanding Speaking Anxiety

Common Fears

• Fear of judgment
• Forgetting what to say
• Being awkward or stumbling
• Not being good enough

Good news: These are completely normal and manageable.

Preparation is Key

Structure Your Talk

1. Hook (first 30 seconds) - Grab attention
2. Opening - Introduce yourself and topic
3. Main content - 3-5 key points
4. Stories and examples - Make it memorable
5. Closing - Strong finish and call-to-action

The 70/20/10 Rule

70% - Preparation and practice
20% - Natural talent and experience
10% - Luck/timing

Techniques for Confidence

Breathing Exercises

Before speaking:

• Slow, deep breaths (4-count in, 6-count out)
• Reduces anxiety and steadies voice
• Practice for 2-3 minutes before presenting

Body Language

Content Delivery

Pacing and Pauses

• Speak at 130-150 words per minute
• Pause after key points (let it sink in)
• Use silence strategically
• Don't rush due to nervousness

Voice Control

• Vary tone - Keeps audience engaged
• Articulate clearly - Avoid mumbling
• Speak from diaphragm - Stronger, clearer voice
• Modulate volume - Emphasize important points

Visual Aids

Slide Design Principles

• One idea per slide
• Large, readable fonts
• Minimal text - You're the presentation
• Strong visuals - Photos beat bullet points
• Consistent styling - Professional appearance

Poor: 15 bullet points per slide
Good: 3 key takeaways with imagery

Handling Difficult Situations

If You Lose Your Place

• Pause and take a breath
• Look at your notes
• Ask the audience a question
• Continue confidently

Dealing with Interruptions

• Answer briefly and redirect
• Save complex questions for later
• Stay composed and professional

Managing Questions

1. Listen fully before answering
2. Repeat/rephrase the question
3. Take a moment to think
4. Answer concisely
5. Invite follow-ups

Practice Methods

The 3-Stage Approach

Stage 1: Alone

• Record yourself
• Check pacing, clarity, filler words

Stage 2: Small group

• Present to trusted friends
• Get feedback
• Build confidence

Stage 3: Live audience

• Start with smaller groups
• Gradually increase audience size

Ongoing Improvement

• Join Toastmasters or speaking clubs
• Watch great speakers
• Ask for feedback
• Record yourself for review

Mental Preparation

Pre-Speaking Affirmations

• "I know this material"
• "The audience wants me to succeed"
• "My message matters"
• "I am prepared"

The Day Of

• Arrive early to familiarize yourself
• Do a tech check
• Practice breathing exercises
• Remember: You've prepared well

The Power of Storytelling

Humans connect with stories, not data. Use personal anecdotes to:

• Make points memorable
• Build rapport with audience
• Create emotional connection
• Illustrate concepts practically

Final Thoughts

"The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it." – Chinese Proverb

Public speaking is like any skill—it improves with practice. Each presentation makes you better. Start speaking more, starting today.