Most people cringe at the thought of giving a speech or chairing a meeting. The limelight is on you and everyone is watching and listening. Who wouldn’t feel at least a bit on edge under these circumstances? While many can muster their courage to get through these events, there are some who find their limbs shaking and their foreheads perspiring at the very thought of the next public speaking occasion.
The prevalence of the problem has led to the formation of public speaking clubs such as Toastmasters, Toastmistresses and Rostrum. These groups exist to help their members gain confidence and skill when presenting a talk, chairing a meeting or being in the limelight for other reasons. Your personnel manager, doctor or other helping professional will be able to suggest the nearest source of help.
If, perchance, there is not a public speaking club in your locale or if you choose to address the problem on your own, get started on the relaxation training procedure. When you have mastered the art of relaxing, then get relaxed and imagine yourself in front of the group to which you will be speaking. Make the scene as realistic as possible by noting the sights, sounds, the tactile stimuli (the feel of the lecturn, desk or table in front of you), and perhaps even the smell of the room. If you experience any anxiety or nervousness, say Stop! to yourself and then get relaxed again. Repeat the process until you can stay calm and composed during the entire scene.
Sharon, a young university lecturer, was feeling anxious prior to every lecture and tutorial meeting. Her major worry was that the sheets of notes she had prepared would shake and rattle if she picked them up in front of the class. Consequently, she memorised the entire set of notes prior to her classes. Rather than avoid confronting the problem any longer, she sought help. We worked through the relaxation exercises but also dealt with topics such as humour. She had never prepared anecdotes, humourous stories or jokes as part of her lecture preparation. In fact, she initially baulked at the suggestion that humour has a part in a good lecture. However, she gathered some amusing stories and jokes and practised telling them to me several times. Her confidence increased and she was quite frankly amazed at the very positive response she received in the next lecture. The students were bright-eyed and alert instead of half asleep. She now jots down good stories when she hears them and files them in a humour box. Apart from gathering good jokes, Sharon profited from the opportunity to practise her presentation and receive feedback in a safe, constructive environment. Perhaps you can arrange a similar opportunity if you are feeling shaky when asked to speak in front of others.
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