Communications coach, Larina Kase says, "You can go from scared speechless to a spectacular speaker quickly without too much work. When you overcome that fear, then you are able to communicate with confidence and move ahead in your career."



Larina had anxiety in college anytime she had to take a class that required oral communication. She went so far as to avoid certain classes because of this. Eventually, she had the courage to register for the classes that required public speaking and did well in them. Through her experience, she now helps people with the same type of anxiety to overcome their fear and become confident speakers.

She teamed up with speaking and presentation coach, Harrison Monarth, to develop proactive strategies to help others become confident speakers. Learn from these communication experts and improve your public speaking potential.

One of the most common myths and misconceptions about public speaking is that anxiety will not let you perform well. In reality, anxiety is needed to perform well. You need just the right level of anxiety to come across to the audience.

Deal with the causes of anxiety and nervousness:

1. Unrealistic Self- Image

2. Unprepared in the Topic

3. Lack of a Clear Objective

4. Not Knowing the Audience

Work on your self-image and self-awareness. Dress appropriately for the occasion. You have to start with yourself to project the best image to the audience. Tape yourself and analyze your movements and manners. It is much easier to correct a problem when you see it for yourself.

Research the topic and have a good body of knowledge. The audience is immediately aware of someone who does not know the material for the presentation. Knowledge of the material will gain the respect of the audience leading to self-confidence.

Concentrate on the key points and issues of your presentation. There should be one important key point you want to get across to your audience. Make sure you back up all the points you make with accurate evidence and supporting information. Keep details to a minimum, but be ready to answer people's questions if need be.

Rehearsal is a must when preparing for a public presentation. Do not avoid rehearsing because it makes you anxious to think about your speech. Rehearse in front of a mirror and practice tone, hand movement and expression. Consider yourself an actor preparing for a part. Know all the ins and outs of your performance and nervousness will be kept at a tolerable level. Take your time and mentally picture yourself giving the real talk to the audience. You will actually begin to feel their enthusiasm. This is a powerful method that will bring you to a calm and confident place.

Learn how to focus on the audience and connect with them. If you do not connect with the audience and establish a relationship with them, the total presentation will be a loss for both you and the audience.

1. Speak their language.

2. Know the culture of your audience.

3. Get on the same wavelength as your audience.

4. Don't talk down to the audience.

5. Establish likeability right from the start.

6. Be friendly, polite, and answer questions.

There is always a chance that you might make a mistake. Don't panic. Handle it gracefully and do not call too much attention to it. Some people may not even have noticed the blunder. It is okay to make a light hearted comment about it and move on. You want to show that you have poise and grace under pressure.

The fine art of public speaking can be attained by anyone. There is no need to be intimidated and anxious at the thought of public speaking. Following these proactive strategies will lead you to becoming a confident and competent speaker. Push yourself out of your comfort zone, take a little risk, and get your message across to the audience.