How to get good at public speaking

Did you know that public speaking is one of America’s biggest sources of anxiety? For many people, public speaking can be terrifying. Yet public speaking is a valuable skill that can help you develop your personal brand. Here are some great suggestions from the Mayo Clinic and other sites for conquering a fear of speaking in public:

• Speak on topics you know well. Make a presentation on a topic or issue that’s dear to you or one that you know well.
• Start small. Begin by performing for small groups, such as family, friends or colleagues.
• Prepare well. Practice your presentation many times. If possible, visit the site where you’ll be giving your speech or presentation. Think about possible questions the audience may ask.
• Think about success. Don’t give in to negative self-talk. Visualize your success. With time, anyone can learn to speak in public.
• Don’t memorize. When you’ve memorized your talk, you’re tempted to rush and to speak in a monotone fashion. Perhaps you can memorize your main bullet points, but then speak extemporaneously on those.
• Get help. Join a speaking group, attend a public speaking seminar or enlist the help of a veteran public speaker. You’ll soon realize there’s nothing to fear!
• Practice. Practice. Practice. Nothing will help you get good at public speaking like … public speaking!