by Heather Harris

Created on: August 10, 2009

Does the thought of giving a speech automatically set your adrenalin pumping like you've drank 10 double expressos and run a marathon? Do sweaty palms, a dry mouth, shaky hands and butterflies in the stomach sounds familiar?

Public speaking is daunting to nearly everyone, especially first timers. Even the most professional speakers have learned to calm the nerves and motivate themselves before the big presentation. That's why they are professionals. So whether it's your first time talking in front of a group or you still find yourself uneasy about approaching talks, here are some tips that may help.

First of all, one of the best things you can do is be prepared. Fly by the seat of your pants and your nearly guaranteed to fumble and get flustered. Memorize your speech, even if it means going to the extent of learning the words by heart. Another method, which may help the speech from being so stilted and prevent you from speaking like a talking mannequin is to simply memorize the most important aspects.

Before presenting a speech you can use note cards in many different ways. You can write verbatim exactly each word you are going to say or you can write your main points you are familiar with and fill in the gaps. Some people find it easier to give a rote explanation of what they know, while others just want to keep their place as they ramble (hopefully intelligently) about the subject they are familiar with.

The next step is practice. Don't be afraid to look like a fool walking around your home delivering the speech to yourself. Often times by actually speaking the words out-loud you will get a good idea of what works and what doesn't. If something sounds off to you, then most likely it needs to be re-written. Practice in front of a mirror to adjust your mind to the stress of knowing you are going to watched. Practice in front of friends and family for more experience in front of others.

On the day of the speech try to refrain from caffeinated beverages. You may think they will make you more alert, but they are more likely to raise your adrenalin levels even higher than they already are. Stick to water or juice. If possible eat a small meal heavy on protein for energy and stamina.

If you can, arrive at the hall, meeting room or auditorium early, that way you can familiarize yourself with where the guests will be seated, where you will stand, etc. By getting there early you are avoiding the unnecessary stress of placing yourself in a new environment and being on immediately.

Before you begin your speech take deep breath which relaxes the body and lowers the blood pressure. If the mere thought of giving a speech gives you the shakes go first so you don't dwell on the upcoming event.

And if you get flustered and loose your place what do you do? Often times you can take a deep breath and smile. The audience will be less likely to notice this than if you begin to stammer and shuffle cards around. You can try ad-libbing, but judge that spin of the roulette wheel by how comfortable you feel with the crowd. Above all get back to the main subject and continue on.

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