7 Tips to Get Over Your Fear of Public Speaking

It's only as bad as you make it.

Public speaking is frequently cited as one of the top fears among people.

While I’ve not struggled with this personally, I understand why some get anxious about giving a presentation in front of a crowd. I believe it is also a fear that stems from insecurity/lack of confidence, an issue I addressed in yesterday’s piece.

I spent my last three years in the U. S. Navy on Instructor Duty; during that time, I logged over 1,900 hours on the podium and achieved the qualification of Master Training Specialist. I’ve learned through training and personal experience some steps that you can take to overcome your fear and become a more effective communicator.

The first time I had to give a presentation was to the Auxiliary Division on the USS Harry S Truman; I don’t remember what it was on, just that I was looking at all of their faces and wondering why they’d picked me. I crushed it, which set me up to get new jobs and assignments to deliver presentations on. Looking back, I didn’t realize it was rare to find someone comfortable in front of crowds; my Chief and Division Officer took advantage of the talent, and everyone won.

1. I improved my skill.

2. My peers got to laugh at me for being up there.

3. Everyone listening received a lesson that wasn’t boring af.

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Here are 7 Lessons on Public Speaking

Below I share broad lessons, then I add my personal take on it as each individual’s issues will be unique, so mine are mine, but I believe they may help you.