Build public speaking confidence – “Scout the territory”

One of the most valuable antidotes to the fear of public speaking and public speaking nerves is to be prepared.

Preparedness and its relation to confidence covers many aspects.

And one of the most powerful is what I call “scouting the territory.”

If at all possible, arrive at the venue early and make it your own. Walk the walk you will make to the stage or lectern. Walk around the room and make yourself comfortable with your surroundings.

Make sure any equipment is prepared and become familiar with how it will work for you and your speech, and what the options are.

If the room could be set up better to suit your presentation, then organize to have that done, if possible.

The most important thing is to feel comfortable with those surroundings … feel confident walking, standing, looking. later, when you are visualizing our presentation, you can include that feeling of confidence as you visualise yourself in the surroundings where you will present. Visualise the confident walk. Visualise yourself confidently using the space. And visualise yourself confidently presenting, and successfully incorporating any equipment.