Lack of practice causes public speaking fear

Many people think you can "over practice" a speech or presentation, so they decide to only practice a few times. However, it is this lack of practice which is the cause of so much public speaking fear.

The fear of public speaking is partly there because of entering the "unknown". When you are familiar with a situation you are much less fearful. The first time you drove a car you were much more nervous than you are now if you have been driving for several years, for instance. It's the same with speaking - the more you do it the less nervous you become.

So, for each individual speech you need plenty of practice sessions in order to get rid of any fear of public speaking. Actors take weeks to learn and practice their roles; they don't do it with just a couple of practice sessions. Equally, the best sales people have practised their "lines" in order to get customers to buy. Olympic gold medallists don't win without practice. So what makes people believe they can perform well on the platform giving a speech without any practice?

And remember practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect. Practising in the wrong way only means your speech will be practised wrongly and then when you come to deliver the real thing, you will be nervous. So, practice out loud, with movements, props and your audio visuals. Practice in the room you are going to be in as well.

Labels: causes