| 1 |
Visualise
a positive outcome ahead of the day. Imagine yourself giving
the presentation ahead of time. Visualise 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. |
| 2 |
Use
prompt cards (eg 6"x4" record cards) to remember
the key phrases in your presentation. Use one card per slide
(If you are using 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. |
| 3 |
Practise
delivering the presentation out aloud. Use the prompt cards
and your slides to make the rehearsal as real as possible.
|
| 4 |
Practise
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. |
| 5 |
Focus
your energy on something other than your impending presentation.
eg 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!) |
| 6 |
Clench
your fists tighly then release them and stretch your fingers
as much as possible. Do this several times just before you
have to stand up to present. |
| 7 |
Try
and visit the presentation room ahead of time so that you
can accustomise yourself to the room layout, where you will
be presenting from etc. |
| 8 |
Try
not to keep notes on large sheets of paper (A4 or fullscap)
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 lecturn. |
| 9 |
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 doesnt need to be obvious to your
audience. |
| 10 |
Practise
smiling in a mirror. The more you can smile when presenting
the more you will be able to take control of your nerves. |
