We all face situations in life where we are compelled to stand in front of a massive crowd (or could be lesser as well)be it in office, schools and colleges, and are expected to explain about some subject, which, in layman terms is called, delivering of a presentation. But how many of us know the technicalities of a perfect presentation? How many of us are confident enough to meet the eyes of hundreds and speak in a flow? What are the things to be kept in mind before giving a presentation? What are the strategies to be followed for an effective presentation?
Well trust me, its not something which is unattainable and before going beyond this line just change your concepts slightly and start believing it to be a simple task than a massive hurdle that you've always thought it is, as, I might help you technically but who really can help you, truly, is you. So start believing in yourself and let's find out together what it takes to be a perfect presenter.
Firstly I would deal with the subject of facing the crowd, the steps and solutions how to combat the problem of nervousness. Well, nervousness or anxiety is an inevitable phenomenon and if you feel like a coward, then probably it would help you if I say that even veteran speakers, if , are not nervous, at least suffer from mild apprehensions before their delivery of presentations, even though they are in practice all the time and its their full fledged
Profession. So what can you do to fight your fears and nervousness before a presentation? Here is what you can do-
Hear the music inside you
You need to, firstly, believe in yourself and be assured of what you are doing and saying, because unless you are really sure of what your task is, you'll for sure land up in an awkward situation. Breathe
Breathing, well, is a universal technique of subsiding the fears and getting your heartbeats in order. This is one of the most effective ways to combat nervousness.Don't drink caffeine or consume sugar
(Sad but true! It makes you less jittery).Massage Your Hands
Do this before you play.
Eat a Banana
I read this somewhere recently and am still testing its accuracy, but eat a banana before performing, because they are supposed to be big beta blockers and helps control anxiety...Convince Yourself Its No Biggie
Try to convince yourself that it's not a big deal (even if it is). The more you get worked up about it, the harder it will be for you to calm yourself down. You don't need to give yourself more pressure than there already is! (At the moment, this technique has been working the best for me as long as I REALLY try to make myself believe that it's not a big deal and it's just fun!)Find a theme song for yourself.
I know it sounds funny, but when you start putting yourself in a character with a background score which is the music you relate with (something inspirational) you find yourself more confident and full of energy.Be A Little Conceited
Well, that's really isn't a good way to put it. Just be REALLY confident! Tell yourself that there's no use to be afraid because you know you're better than everyone else (even if you're not) don't go overboard, but you can't have a low self esteem if you want to be able to play in front of others.Keep Warm
Make sure your hands and your flute are warm! Cold fingers just make the trembling worse.Remember, You Are Nervous
Keep in mind that when you are nervous, you have a tendency to go faster than normal. This is a BAD thing! Have the steady tempo in your mind.Visualize, Visualize, Visualize
Visualize yourself doing it perfectly and amazingly beautifully. You might surprise yourself!Learn Your Subject
Fill your mind with information about your subject. If you put in the time to do proper research you have won half the battle. Your confidence grows along with your knowledge of your subject. But be prepared... that the nervous stomach of yours may not disappear until you actually begin speaking, so don't expect to be anxious free. Actually, some nervousness is good; otherwise, you may become overconfident. However, when you have something to say and you know what you are going to say your confidence will shine through.Be the expert
If you have studied, done the research and are properly prepared, then you are the expert. You assume the role as the instructor. Develop the mind set that you are the teacher who is teaching them. You are not being arrogant when you assume the position as the expert. You are simply having the attitude that you have paid the price to speak about your subject and you will deliver.
Never apologize
Do not begin a speech by saying you are sorry for being un-prepared. As soon as you do you have lost the right to speak. You should never start a speech with any kind of an apology. If you are late or lacked the time to prepare like you wanted, simply do not mention it. Just get started with your speech.
Begin your speech without words
When you walk up to the platform to make your speech, pause before saying anything. Look your audience in the eyes. When you approach the beginning of your speech in this manner you communicate to the audience that you are in control. You appear not to be nervous and everyone begins to feel secure. They will be more likely to receive your message.
Take your notes, but not your manuscript
You will want to take your outline. This will give you a sense of security. You have studied. You are prepared. The outline will be there to guide you. It will help you stay on track.
However, if you take the manuscript you will have a tendency to read too much. You may even get lost in all of the writing you have before you, consequently, you may find yourself filled full of fear.
Do not attempt to memorize your manuscript either. You may forget where you are in your speech. Your mind may go blank. Or you may simply look very unnatural as you deliver your memorized script.
Practice, Practice and Practice
You must practice what you are going to say, how you're going to say it and when you're going to say it. You need to get a feel for how your speech is going to come out. You need to make sure your timing is right and your delivery is going to have it's maximum impact. So, practice, practice and practice.
Speak In Front of a Mirror
Get used to the ideas, the words and pronunciation.
Smile
When it is time to present, get up and smile.
Keep your voice flexible
Modulate your voice to emphasize major points and most importantly, avoid monotony.
Summarize
Summarize what you have said (no more than one minute) to help end your presentation.
