Techniques for Managing Communication Apprehension

Communication apprehension, also known as stage fright, is the fear of public speaking. Although for many people public speaking can be a scary experience, there are ways to alleviate this fear. Speakers can manage their communication apprehension by doing as much work on the speech as possible beforehand, and managing their thoughts and attitudes before and during the presentation. 

Be Prepared - One of the most effective ways of managing communication apprehension is to be prepared. When speakers have thoroughly prepared to give a speech, they project confidence to the audience. Speakers can prepare for their speaking occasions by knowing about themselves, the topic of the speech and the audience that is going to hear it. Speakers need to know how they react to stress and be aware of the strengths and weaknesses that they have so they can improve upon those weak spots. In addition, speakers must research their speech topic thoroughly and get information about members of the audience, such as their beliefs, age, gender and religious or political affiliations.

Be Positive - Keeping a positive attitude can help speakers reduce their nervousness by creating an expectation of success. One way to do this is through visualization, where speakers picture themselves giving a speech that is successful. Positive thoughts help speakers change the way they think about public speaking and help them build their confidence. It's important, however, for speakers to remain realistic so they do not build up their expectations so high that they are setting themselves up for a major fall.

Practice, Practice, Practice - When speakers practice their speeches ahead of time, they determine the strong points of the speech as well as the weak points. This gives speakers a chance to change the content that does not fit well into the speech. Practice also allows speakers to determine what type of delivery works best for them, so they can adjust their delivery style as needed. It is also helpful for speakers to practice their speech in front of friends or family members, which gives them the opportunity to get an idea of how an audience might react.

Breathe - Breathing exercises can help the speaker calm down before or during a speech. By breathing deeply, a speaker releases tension in the hands, head or face, which helps to get rid of excess energy and helps the speaker to relax.

 

 

How to Reduce Speech Apprehension Anxiety

Speech apprehension, or the fear of public speaking, is a common cause of anxiety and apprehension for many people. Feeling judged or self-conscious when presenting to a large audience is a common sign that a person may have fear of public speaking. Negative emotions and the feeling that one will make a mistake in front of a group is a common reason many panic. There are several ways to reduce speech apprehension and overcome nervousness when giving a presentation.

Step 1

Understand and know the material presented. Do no procrastinate researching the topic.

Step 2

Make an outline. Use bullet points and not full sentences. Apply bullets in the speech to stay on topic and use as reminders.

Step 3

Practice the speech as often as necessary until the material flows naturally. Give the speech to friends and family members and ask for feedback.

Step 4

Do the Sarnoff Squeeze, a relaxation exercise, prior to giving a speech. Place both hands in front of you, and push the bottom of your palms together. Slowly exhale and relax. Contracting the hand muscles decreases the amount of epinephrine in the body, a fear-inducing chemical.

Step 5

Think positively. Tell yourself you will give a great presentation or speech. Say positive messages aloud. Visually imagine yourself giving a successful speech.

Step 6

Walk up to the podium with self-confidence and a strong posture. Stand in front of the room and pause before starting speech; take a look around.

Tips and Warnings

• Join a local group of Toastmasters International. The nonprofit group practices communication and speech skills. Meet with a group weekly or biweekly to apply positive presentation and leadership skills.