Vincent Ivan Phipps
Contributing Writer
Communication VIP

During your next public speaking opportunity: interview, speech, or presentation; follow these guidelines to help you look and sound more comfortable even if on the inside you feel terrified!

1.  Move slower. The fastest indicator of nervousness will be your body language.  Approximately 50{938cd9e8dae860e800efc538277d4f7684e6f6981618ba70d1c34357a53c2e1f} of your perceived confidence when speaking in public will be deduced from your hand gestures, posture, and facial expressions. When you walk, or gesture with fewer sporadic movements, you will be perceived as more in control of your energy.

2.  Talk slower.  The second fastest indicator of nervousness is the speed of your voice.  Approximately 40{938cd9e8dae860e800efc538277d4f7684e6f6981618ba70d1c34357a53c2e1f} of your perceived confidence when speaking in public will be deduced from three vocal dynamics: Volume, Pausing, and Speed. When you say your words slower, you will be perceived as more in control of your emotions. 

3.  Ask questions. Instead of feeling as if you have to carry all of the presentation, make it interactive. Ask questions, facilitate discussions, and welcome immediate feedback.  Answering questions and generating discussions can reduce your fear and increase the listener’s enjoyment of your presentation.

Being nervous makes you a human. Being prepared makes you a professional.