Public Speaking: Promoting Confidence
Authors Sybil Johnson (left), Lida Sideris (center) and Diane Vallere (right)
by Lida Sideris
If you’re like many people, and especially, many writers, the thought of public speaking gives you the jitters. Fear of public speaking affects 75% of the population, far ahead of the fear of death, spiders, or heights.
I’ve experienced my share of severe heart thumping, not to mention having my throat constrict to the point where I couldn’t down a mint if I tried. It’s no fun to be tossed into an emotional battlefield of fear, dread, and anxiety because of stage fright. But I’ve learned that it doesn’t have to be this way.
At an author panel for my first book, a former co-worker asked how I could possibly speak in public, since I was a trifle shy by nature. The answer was simple: I forgot my shyness whenever I had the opportunity to talk about a topic that stirred my passions. Namely, my passion for reading and writing. Passion ignites enthusiasm and excitement, both of which provide padding around the heart that crowds out distressing heart thumping or a bad case of nerves.
“The way you overcome shyness is to become so wrapped up in something that you forget to be afraid.” — Lady Bird Johnson
I’d like to share a few body language tips I found helpful in promoting confidence:
1. When all else fails, paste a smile on your face throughout the event.
That smile will warm you up and in turn, warm the audience. The audience won’t always remember what you say, but they will remember how you made them feel (to paraphrase the great Maya Angelou). Believe it or not, a simple smile may be just the confidence booster you need.
2. Remind yourself to sit straight, chin parallel to the ground, stomach tucked in.
I have a bad habit of slumping in my seat. Do I want my body to display discomfort, insecurity, or unease? Do I want to look like I’m hoping to disappear into the woodwork? Absolutely…NOT. Sit up straight. This is what confidence looks like. And don’t underestimate the power of eye contact. It communicates sincerity and engagement.
3. Maintain a positive attitude.
Remind yourself of what a wonderful place you are in your life. I love looking out at the audience and reminding myself that I’m there because I’m a published author, a dream come true and an instant attitude lift.
4. Be nice to everyone that crosses your path.
Studies show that kindness begets kindness. A single kind act can spur dozens more. And it feels so good.
5. Your tone of voice matters.
Talk to your audience like you would to someone you care about. A dear aunt, a good friend, a favorite pet, or anyone that brings out the best in you. Keep in mind that audience members typically want to be there; they want to hear what you have to say and hope to go away having learned something of value that they can take and use in their own lives. Our job when speaking is to give them what they want and more.