Your heart’s racing…
You’ve got five minutes before you speak at the conference / make your case to the committee / address the staff. You’ve prepared good material, rehearsed thoroughly and tested the equipment. But you’ll be under scrutiny. You’re worried that you might perform poorly and be judged a failure. Your mouth feels dry, you’re breathing heavily and your heart’s racing.
Here’s how to manage your nerves so you can deliver the goods:
Before you enter the spotlight
- Go for a short walk to relax
- Breathe calmly, from the diaphragm
- Shake your wrists to dispel tension
- Smile – it’s a natural relaxant
- Visualise your interested and attentive audience
When you’re in the spotlight
- Keep up the calm breathing
- Just before you start, pause for a moment, make eye contact and smile
- Slow down and articulate clearly – no gabbling
- Fall in love with the full stop
- STAY (stop thinking about yourself) – it’s all about them