Public Speaking – a scary experience or a great buzz?
I’m escaping the house this week and going to a networking event at a local restaurant with a friend. Now I don’t get out that often, so the opportunity to catch up with a friend and find out more about public speaking was one I didn’t want to miss.
Public speaking! I have to confess that although I’ve done lots of presentations over the years, public speaking isn’t something that comes easy. I’ve prepared my overheads, rehearsed my content and successfully delivered my key messages, but never actually enjoyed the whole presentation-giving experience. Sweaty palms, trembling knees, dry mouth – I’ve had them all.
But all that is about to change! The guest speaker at the networking event will be talking about how to be a dynamic speaker and presenter without the butterflies and trembling knees. Great! Can’t wait!
As my business moves forward, I’ll be doing more public speaking – whether as formal presentations to new clients, or more informally at networking events. Maybe this lady can transform me into a great orator, capable of delivering speeches and presentations of the highest order…
Apart from my friend, I won’t know anyone else at the networking event. But that’s fine. This is a great opportunity to make memorable first impressions, to overcome initial shyness and lose myself within a group of like-minded individuals who may turn out to be excellent business contacts. I may even make new friends. But as long as I learn some useful tips on improving my public speaking, I’ll be happy. Maybe my next presentation will give me a great buzz and not scare the living daylights out of me. I’ll let you know how I get on in my next blog.
If you have any tips on overcoming public speaking stage fright, or can recommend a book or website that has useful information, email me ruth@purplechameleon.com.au