D-day: what to do during the presentation to overcome stage fright

Stage fright is caused by the fight or flight response.  Being well prepared can help overcome this natural response from occurring. However, when it comes to the actual presentation, you might still get nervous and experience stage fright. These are some tips that you can use during the presentation in order to ensure that it goes as smoothly as possible.

• Pauses: Take as many pauses as possible.  Though it might seem like it is long to you, remember that for the audience, it is an opportunity to digest the facts and figures that you are introducing to them. Taking a pause can help you collect your thoughts and calm yourself during the presentation.

• Present your first sentence from memory: Although you can have helpful hints to help you present, it is a good to present your first sentence from memory. This makes you feel confident and starts off the presentation on the right note.

• Maintain eye contact:  Looking at a few friendly faces in the audience will help you feel confident.

• Don’t read from your notes: Reading out the entire presentation is not advisable. However, having a few hints to move your speech along is a good idea in case you forget the content.  Remember that if you get stuck, you can summarize your points. Effective public speakers ensure that the main points are effectively highlighted.

• Show enthusiasm: Interest and enthusiasm in your chosen topic would be infectious and reflect in the audience.

• Use visual aids effectively: Visual aids would encourage the audience to keep their attention on the presentation. This will reduce your nervousness.

There are certain things that you can do after the presentation in order to learn from your experience and end your presentation on a good note, whatever your presentation may have been: encourage questions, end with a summary and appreciation, review your performance, seek out feedback.

In my experience, the more I put myself in situations where I had to speak in front of people, the more determined I became to conquer this abstract but powerfully evil nemesis. I have made it my life’s mission ever since that New Year’s party of 2007, when I sputtered nonsensically, to read every bit of information that came my way that could help. I have persevered at recognizing, analyzing, understanding and, to a good extent, finding a way to overcome my stage fright.

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