Presentations Training:
10 Presentation Skills Training Tips on How to Take Control of Nerves & Deliver a Successful Presentation

Next time you are faced with the daunting prospect of having to deliver a presentation or speech, try out these tips from the Communicate Now! website and you'll be surprised at just how effective they can be at helping to manage your nerves and reducing the fear of presenting.

Visualize a positive outcome ahead of the day. Imagine yourself giving the presentation ahead of time. Visualize yourself at the end. You know it went well. Remember how you felt. What you saw in the room. Try and be as detailed as possible. Repeat this several times ahead of the actual day.

Use prompt cards (e.g. 6"x4" record cards) to remember the key phrases in your presentation. Use one card per slide (If you are using MS PowerPoint). This means if you were to lose your place you would be able to regain your composure again by simply checking your prompt card.

Practice delivering the presentation out aloud. Use the prompt cards and your slides to make the rehearsal as real as possible.

Practice breathing techniques. You need to breathe deeply using your stomach to full effect. A few deep breaths can help to reduce the tension and help you relax.

Focus your energy on something other than your impending presentation. e.g. if seated waiting for your turn to present, try to make your arms as heavy as possible on the arms of the chair. Try to make them feel like "dead weights". Push down on the arms of the chair. (But try not to break the chair!)

Clench your fists tightly then release them and stretch your fingers as much as possible. Do this several times just before you have to stand up to present.

Try and visit the presentation room ahead of time so that you can accustom yourself to the room layout, where you will be presenting from etc.

Try not to keep notes on large sheets of paper (A4 or foolscap) and then hold the notes whilst you are presenting. If you are holding them and your hand is shaking a bit it will make you more aware of the fact. Try to use prompt cards instead or ensure that your notes are on the lectern.

Remember that most good speakers feel nervous when they speak. You need to have nervous energy if you want to make a more dynamic presentation. Remember too that although you might be feeling quite nervous inside that doesn't need to be obvious to your audience.

Practice smiling in a mirror. The more you can smile when presenting the more you will be able to take control of your nerves.

Source: Martin MacLeod link

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