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You make the most positive impression
by being YOU. By speaking naturally and
even conversationally you project
confidence. This quality is more appealing
than the formal "I'm delivering a really
important speech" posture often seen in
business settings. Remember, you are not
an actor playing a part. Try these easy
suggestions to help you feel more
comfortable being yourself. The following
suggestions will help you communicate
effectively.
DO
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Immediately make eye
contact with a friendly face.
Hold that eye contact until you
have completed a thought, feel
comfortable and are in control.
This should take a minimum of
five seconds. Now try looking at
small groups of people in the
audience. Using eye contact, like
any physical activity, takes
practice and muscle memory.
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Use gestures. Gesturing
is an excellent way to channel
nervous energy and control the
fear of public speaking. When you
move, you reduce your own stress.
Also, the audience is obligated
to follow your action. Try
using your body to support your
message.
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Speak louder than you
usually do. High volume conveys
high energy. Also, speaking
louder can help with the fear of
public speaking.
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DON'T
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Focus on what you want to
change about your presentation
style. Instead, work on
identifying your best qualities.
For example, have you received
positive feedback in the past
about your presentation style?
Can you incorporate those
suggestions now as you prepare
for your presentation?
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Warning:
don't tell a joke with a punch
line. Even
professional speakers have
trouble with jokes that hinge on
the perfectly timed one-liner.
Also, if you are nervous you will
get even more nervous if no one
laughs. Instead, go for humor
that is light and
spontaneous.
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Psyche yourself up too
much. It's important to care
about your presentation and its
outcome but be careful about
having unrealistic expectations.
Of course you want to do well but
everyone can have an off day.
Worrying too much can create the
fear of public speaking.
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