CHAMPION STRATEGIES – PUBLIC SPEAKING WORKSHOP – JANUARY 3, 2021
Performance Anxiety Got Your Tongue?
Being able to speak with confidence in front of the camera and set aside your performance anxiety isn’t something that comes naturally to most people. Even the most experienced speakers can feel nervous in front of the camera.
What is it about the lens that makes people so uncomfortable?
Whatever the reason, video is quickly becoming a key communication vehicle. You need to overcome your performance anxiety and learn to speak well on camera with confidence if you want to succeed in today’s video-dominated world.
Here are five public speaking tips that will help you perform better on camera.
Get Comfortable Before Speaking On Camera
Any good public speaker will tell you that performance anxiety is worse if you’re physically uncomfortable, and that includes the clothing you choose.
If you want to be comfortable in front of the camera, choose clothing that not only makes you feel good about yourself, but also feels comfortable to wear. The last thing you need to be worrying about is feeling constricted by pants that are too tight or that the person watching can see your sweat stains.
If possible, try to schedule your video meetings or video shoots for a time of day when you feel at your best. If you’re a morning person, that means shooting early in the day. If you’re shooting a video, give yourself plenty of time. Nothing will make you look stressed on camera more than feeling like you’re under the gun. Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need.
Other things you can do to help make you feel comfortable speaking on camera include: staying hydrated, speaking about topics you’re passionate about, knowing the script and limiting the number of distractions around you.
Breathe & Relax to Reduce Performance Anxiety
This is easier said than done for a lot of people, but it’ll get easier with practice.
Right before speaking on camera, do something that helps you to relax and feel comfortable. This could be yoga, reading a book or listening to music. When you take some time before you speak on camera to compose yourself and calm your breathing, you’ll find you appear more natural and relaxed on camera. Most importantly, don’t hold your breath!
Learning proper breathing will also make it easier to pace your speaking. A casual and conversational tone is appropriate for your videos; unfortunately, that’s not the way people speak in their everyday conversations, which tend to be much faster.
When you’re speaking on camera, deliberately slow your speech down to enunciate and make your words clear to your listeners. Slowing your speech down will also lessen the chances of stumbling over your words and stuttering.
Mind Your Body Language
Studies suggest only 7 per cent of our judgement is based on verbal communication, which means body language and non-verbal communication plays a huge role in speaking on camera. When you’re suffering from performance anxiety, though, focusing on good body language can be difficult.
Make It A Champion Day!
