You are being asked to make a speech for a community fundraiser or you are asked to explain a new product at the annual sales convention – how do you make these occasions less stressful so that you can relax before your turn comes and you don’t make a fool of yourself!

Relaxation seems like a funny word to use when talking about public speaking, doesn’t it? They don’t seem to go together – do they? Well you certainly aren’t going to be as relaxed as you would be at the beach or taking a bath – but you can use some techniques to calm yourself and make yourself more serene so that your nervousness is held at bay and under control.

Many people advise you to just think about the fact that the audience is just filled with human beings like you. So try to picture them without their clothes or in comical situation so that you bring them down to your own level.  Most of the people there have come because they want to hear what you have to say so concentrate on your ability to get your message across and think of the audience as your friends so that you can loosen up and not be too stiff and formal – that will relax the audience as well.

Use little techniques to calm you when you first are introduced by taking time to thank your host and take a drink of water if necessary before you start off. Many people have a dry mouth so lubricate it and then begin talking. Look at the audience and move your body in different directions so that you include the whole audience – not just a few in front of you. Once you take control you will find that most of the fear goes away and you being to relax more and more – until you are finished – and everyone is clapping!