by Doreen Martel

Created on: January 23, 2012   Last Updated: January 24, 2012

You have been asked by your manager to do a business presentation. You are now faced with the challenge of learning to overcome your fear of public speaking. Men and women from nearly all walks of life all have one thing in common. Many share the common fear of public speaking (known as glossophobia). When confronted with the necessity to do a business proposal, they will be forced to face and learn how to overcome fear of public speaking. There are some steps that are not that difficult that can help you overcome this fear.

Prepare your material

Preparing your own material can help you overcome the fear of public speaking. The reason behind this is that you will know the material. Preparing your own material means that you know the substance of your material well. This also means that you will be well prepared to deliver a solid presentation.

Study your material

If you do not have the luxury of preparing your presentation yourself, make sure you study it completely. Although you do not want your presentation to sound like it is over-rehearsed, studying your material will help you when making a presentation. The more thoroughly you master the order that your presentation is to be done in, the easier it will be for you to conquer your fear of public speaking.

Anticipate questions

Another tactic that will help you overcome the fear of public speaking is to anticipate what questions may arise before, during and after your presentation. This exercise can help you feel more confident as you face an audience. Review a list of possible questions and prepare your answers. While you may not be able to anticipate every question, this exercise can help boost your self confidence.

Review the area of the presentation

Whenever possible, review the venue where you will be making your presentation. This helps you establish where you will be in relation to your audience. It will also help you gauge how loudly you must speak in order to be heard. Check out audio equipment at the same time. These things can help increase your confidence.

Practice with someone you trust

Ask a friend or family member to allow you to test out all or a portion of your presentation with them acting as your audience. Make sure they know that you need honest feedback so that you can perfect your presentation. They will not be doing you any favors if they do not tell you the truth. Practice until you are comfortable.

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