Introduction
Presenting a public presentation has been known to be an act that most people fear. This is true whether the presentation involves acting, singing, playing an instrument and even dancing (Carlson, n.d.).
According to Burgis, based on a survey conducted in 2005 indicated that stage fright is the most highly rated fear among Americans. The results of this study indicate 15% of employed people are afraid of oral communication within the organization (2010). The fear triggers physical reactions that cause the heart rate to increase, sweaty palms and/or tension in the muscles (Carlson, n.d.).
Although some individuals have the natural ability to speak in public with minimal strain, the majority of individuals face considerable difficulty when making a public oral presentation (Burgis, 2010). Given that successfully making a public presentation is very crucial this paper will highlight some tips that may be of use in alleviating the tension associated with getting the messages across effectively with minimal strain.
Useful Strategies/Techniques to cope with Stage Fright
One essential tip in improving presentation skills and reducing stage fright is practice. Stage fright is based on a fear of how the audience will judge the presentation or even the individual making the presentation (Burgis, 2010). It has been reported that practicing alone a few minutes at a time can help the presenter gain confidence while on stage. It may also be necessary to memorize portions such as the opening and closing statements of the presentation.
Another essential tip in combating stage fright is visualization. This requires the speaker to use their imagination and picture the presentation the being carried out without any problems.
In addition to this it may help to imagine how the positive feedback after the presentation will feel, e.g. the feeling of getting the promotion or the customer account, etc. The presenter may want to try and keep imagining this experience from the time they learn that they are expected to make the presentation up to just moments before the actual event (Burgis, 2010).
Given that fear is associated with the mind some author’s indicate that it may be useful in addition to imagination to be familiar with the venue where possible (Carlson, n.d.). A last minute hitch like a faulty microphone or laptop projector may be all it takes to get you unhinged. Arriving a few moments early to make sure all you require is in place and working is useful in alleviating mental stress associated with stage fright.
It is also essential to know the material and focus on a few key points to make an effective presentation (Burgis, 2010) (Widener, 2000). It has been reported that audience often want to get a few key points from the speaker and mountains of facts may ultimately work against you rather than for you. In this regard it helps to know a little about your audience so as to focus on what will be important to them. It will also help the speaker to answer questions because the presentation will have limited the scope.
In addition to that the speaker may want to use the tension to their advantage and avoid focusing on negative aspects that increase tension. Burgis mentions that it is not necessary for the speaker to apologize for nervousness as this may draw the audience attention away from the speech (2010).
Taking long deep breaths will help ease the natural anxiety and allow one to focus on the task at hand (Widener, 2000). Also of benefit to the speaker is the use of positive eye contact and body language. The speaker should avoid staring, looking at the ceiling or floor.
Another important factor highlights the importance of adequate rest prior to the presentation and adequate water (Carlson, n.d.). Some author’s have mentioned that a joke or informal remark when opening helps relax the audience and the speaker as well (Widener, 2000). However, this should be applied with caution because if it doesn’t make the desired impact it may act as a negative catalyst. Lastly, where the need arises it may be wise to use resources such as a speech coach to improve on communication skills.
In a paper on strategies to relieve stage fright by Janet Hoang, the discussion presented provides the reader with information of how to overcome anxiety associated with oral presentations. The paper introduces the issue of anxiety and provides some personal tips used by Janet in overcoming tension.
The key factor she identified as the main cause for her problems with stage fright was attributable to inadequate preparation. Another student, Andrea Babic, also attests to the importance of adequate preparation. In addition, she mentions use of cue cards, appropriate eye contact, body language and knowing the needs of the audience as important to an oral presentation.
References
Burgis, N. (2010). Presentations Training: Stage Fright and Business Presentation Seminars. Web.
Carlson, E. (n.d.). Strategies for Coping with Stage Fright. Web.
Widener, C. (2000). Top 7 Practical tips fro Overcoming Stage Fright. Web.