Worried about Presentations: being confident

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Most degree programmes and careers require presentation skills. Anyone who understands some underlying techniques and principles about presenting will be a more confident speaker. Speaking effectively and persuasively is something anyone can learn and develop with practice.

So what's the big deal?

Exactly! The main reason so many people shy away from speaking in public is fear-the fear of going blank, forgetting what you had planned to say, the fear of sounding stupid or of boring the audience to death. Quite often the anxiety provoking thought is that your name, career or reputation is at stake. The deepest fear is that you are being judged - not just what you are saying.
There is a big difference between being nervous before speaking and feeling terrified. A certain amount of anxiety and tension before addressing a group is natural and even energising. What you need to do is succeed to turn the experience around. Focus on the positive implication of giving a presentation rather than on the negative ones.

The level of your anxiety before speaking to a group will be influenced by five factors . These are:

Your knowledge of the subject

The more you know about the subject to be presented, the more confidant you will be. Dealing with material that is new or that you have not fully researched may add to your level of anxiety; Do not change your information at the last minute.

Your advance preparation

How you initially organise the amount of information and knowledge on the subject matter is important. Often people put off preparing the speech until the time to deliver it has almost arrived. Lack of structure, planning and preparation will contribute to you feeling nervous while delivering the speech. Effective presentation relies on adequate preparation;

Who are your audience?

What are the characteristics of the audience in terns of, for example, age, sex, status and work experience?

• Do they have a vested interest?
• Will they be a friendly audience? Who is hostile?
• Does a member of the audience already know something about the subject?

Your familiarity with the venue & technology

The better you know the venue, the less anxious you are likely to be. If the presentation takes place in your own classroom, or the conference room of the company where you work, preparing will probably be les complicated. The size and layout of the room can influence how comfortable you may feel. Research your location and the technology that is being used i.e pcs, projectors, video cameras etc.

What is the purpose of your presentation?

Your level of comfort may be influenced by the occasion and the purpose of your presentation. You may feel more anxious in a formal or confrontational occasion than at a casual, informal gathering. Remember points 1 - 4 above and the rest will fall into place!

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