Also nervous to speak for a large group? Then follow these three steps

28 Mar 2024Updated: 4 hours ago | 52 people are reading

Also nervous to speak for a large group? Then follow these three steps

© Maaike Oude Geerdink Also nervous to speak for a large group? Then follow these three steps

Speaking for a large group of people is a breeze for one, while it can be the biggest nightmare for another. But giving a presentation can be your chance to make your voice heard. Therefore three tips for the nervous speakers.

Research

A study by Chapman University shows that 1 in 4 Americans fear giving a presentation at work. They are therefore more afraid of this than, for example, insects, mice, snakes or walking in the dark. Fortunately, the research also shows that you can keep this fear under control, so that you do not become too nervous.

Three tips

1. Try to turn your nerves into enthusiasm. "Stay calm and keep going" is an advice you can't do if you are scared. Instead, try embracing your clammy hands and your increased heart rate and see it as a sign of excitement. A Harvard Business School study shows that appreciation and acceptance of your anxiety helps to keep your nerves under control.

2. Share the ideas you have in mind and don't let it revolve around you

It may be an honor to be able to speak in front of your colleagues, but don't make it bigger than it is. So don't worry about your boss's approval or what the audience will think of your presentation. Present what you stand for.

3. Do not pin down every word

If you have done the necessary preparation, then you know what you want to say. So don't literally stick to every word. Tell the important things and make a current presentation. Your colleagues really don't know how you actually formulated the sentence.