Harnessing Public Speaking Jitters

“You don’t have to overcome your fear in order to be a good public speaker. It never goes away entirely. Instead, it’s about having less fear — think of it as being fear-less.” So say Mark Banchek, CEO of Shift Thinking, and Mandy Gonzales, a star of Hamilton on Broadway, writing in the Harvard Business Review. 

Both Gonzales and Banchek are used to facing audiences in high stakes situations but, even with all their experience, neither has ever found a way to purge all fear. However, they offer some tips on how to keep fear from getting in the way of delivering a first-rate performance: 

1. Be prepared: Know your material so well you don't have to think about it.
2. Be real: Consider the worst thing that could happen, but also consider the best.
3. Be vulnerable: The best way to connect with an audience is to be human…mistakes, flaws and all.
4. Be present: When onstage, stay grounded. Feel your feet on the floor, take a breath, and find a friendly face in the audience to connect with.
5. Be generous: Focus on the gift you want to give your audience, be it information, inspiration, direction, or an experience.

Finally, it’s easier to be fear-less together. Find people who help you feel that way —and help each other to be prepared, real, vulnerable, present, and generous.   (Tweet it!)

What are your strategies for dealing with the natural anxieties that accompany public speaking? To join the conversation, click "comments" above.

If you would like to learn more about creating a habit around masterful communication, check out our online learning programs.  

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