Public speaking: Be the True You
Does giving a speech at a big event such as a wedding or conference fill you with dread? Do you need to speak publicly for work and would like to become more confident? If you’re a nervous speaker it’s worth knowing that more often than not our audience can’t see, hear or feel our anxiety anywhere near to which we experience it.
I remember a time when I attended a business conference and found myself confronted with a chilling task. One of the guest speakers, a confidence expert ( and some sort of sadist, it seems) challenged us to turn to a stranger and spend 60 painful seconds telling them what we are good at. Let me tell you, you don’t know how slowly time can pass until you’ve done a task like that. Those seconds passed like years.
Know yourself.
Self-awareness is the underpinning of authenticity. After all, if you don't truly know who you are and how you feel, how can you genuinely be yourself? Developing self-knowledge begins with having the courage to see yourself as you really are, including your imperfections, doubts, and fears. Cultivating self-awareness in your daily life is the best way to develop an authentic presence as a speaker.
Know your audience.
To build your credibility and connect authentically, consider your audience members' backgrounds, language patterns, and cultural norms. Customise the images and metaphors you use to resonate with them.
Know your material.
It's impossible to come across authentically when you're stumbling over facts or key elements of your message. Rehearse until you know your material cold. Review your notes repeatedly, and memorise vital details and statistics. This familiarity allows your true self to shine through, rather than being distracted by what comes next.
Practice.
Run through it again and again until you’ve internalised your script and can speak naturally. In my opinion, no good speaker ever succeeded by “winging it,” and those who think they can haven’t listened to themselves ramble and stammer over material they aren’t sure of.
Relax and have fun.
Finally, remember that everyone has been where you are right now, and they genuinely want you to succeed. Embrace the experience, and even if you receive feedback for improvement, know that it's likely coming from a place of positive support.
