When I first started speaking in public, I got so overwhelmed, physically, emotionally, mentally. I remember speaking in front of a small audience, and my hand started shaking so much that I had to grab my other hand to hold the microphone still. Then my knee started shaking and going crazy. Public speaking was the last thing I wanted to do.
It’s so crazy now that this is what I teach. But if speaking in public freaks you out, if speaking in public creates anxiety for you, it’s really normal. When it comes to public speaking, many people feel overwhelmed and anxious. In fact, public speaking is one of the most feared activities among people, even more than death. But on the other side of getting over this fear is this incredible power, this incredible freedom, and this sense of autonomy to be able to create and generate what you want in your life.
Your Craft Is Valued To The Level That Your Can Sell It
For many of us, we think we need to get really good at our craft. Now, that is part of becoming successful. Getting really good at what you do is really important to being successful. But if you don’t know how to communicate the value of what you do, then people’s perception of what you do will be a lot lower. People’s perception of what you do determines the value they put on it. You could have a 10 out of 10 skill, but your communication abilities be a two out of 10, and they’re going to view the value of your skill at a two rather than a 10, even though it’s a 10. This is why I’m so obsessed with this topic of speaking and selling on stages.
The Readiness Scale
Before I dive into the three secrets to becoming incredibly confident when you speak on any stage, I want to talk about the readiness scale. For me, it’s important to have a sense of anticipation, almost like anxiety, but anywhere between a three and a seven. I actually think some anxiety in a presentation is good. The goal is not to have no anxiety, but the right amount of anxiety and anticipation so that you’re ready to deliver at your best.
3 Strategies from My Sell From Stage Academy® Program
Here are three powerful strategies that will help you become incredibly confident when speaking on any stage.
1. View it as a conversation, not a formal speech
The first strategy to becoming confident on any stage is to view your presentation as a conversation, not a formal speech. When you view your presentation as a conversation, it changes the dynamic of the experience. You become more relaxed and more at ease, which can help you deliver your message with greater confidence.
One way to incorporate this strategy is to use inclusive language throughout your presentation. For instance, you can use phrases like “we” and “us” to create a sense of community with your audience. I use the phrase, “Hey, it’s great to have this conversation with you today.” It’s a very inclusive language, which can make your presentation more engaging and interesting.
2. Move into the audience’s mind
The second strategy is to move into the audience’s mind. Instead of focusing on your own nervousness and anxiety, focus on the audience’s concerns, worries, and difficulties. By doing this, you can connect with your audience on a deeper level and make a greater impact with your presentation.
To incorporate this strategy, spend some time thinking about the specific problems and frustrations your audience is facing. Ask yourself questions like “what are their challenges?” and “how can I serve them better?” By doing this, you will be able to craft a presentation that is tailored to your audience’s needs and concerns.
3. Get present
The third strategy to becoming confident on any stage is to get present. This means being fully present in the moment and focused on the task at hand. When you are present, you are able to connect more deeply with your audience and deliver your message with greater impact.
Before I get on stage, I do a three-step process to get present in my body. This will move you from focusing on the past or future to focusing on the present moment. Here’s how you do it: First, take three deep breaths and focus on the sensation of the breath moving through your body. Second, wiggle your toes and move your shoulders to become more aware of your body. Finally, look around your environment and notice five different colors. By doing these simple exercises, you can become more present and focused on the task at hand.
The Power of These Strategies
By incorporating these three strategies into your presentation, you can become incredibly confident when speaking on any stage. Whether you are doing a webinar, a presentation, or a live event, these strategies will help you connect with your audience and deliver your message with greater impact.
These strategies have helped me and my clients become more confident and successful speakers. Remember, some anxiety is good, but not too much. Use the readiness scale to find the right amount of anxiety and anticipation. Public speaking can be a thrill and a powerful tool for success.
Episode 162 | 3 Powerful Strategies To Instantly Become Confident While Speaking
Podcast Description:
Very few things terrify people more than speaking in public. In fact, a study polled people on what they feared more between death & public speaking. And a whopping 75% feared public speaking more! Now as an expert this study may hit close to home since you most likely find yourself in a position where you have to present or speak on virtual or live stages often. Good news for you though, in this episode I share with you 3 profound ideas that increase your confidence when speaking publicly. These strategies are ones that I utilize before every single speaking engagement I have. I can’t recommend them enough.
Colin ‘Speak with Confidence’ Boyd
P.S. If you haven’t yet checked out my Conversion Story Formula™ it’s been getting crazy results for people. We have had over 1,732 people join it in the last 3 months! So many of them are already designing their signature story in under 48 hours and are sharing it with their audience! Don’t miss out any longer!
