1) Be clear on why you are speaking. Why is this topic important to you and what’s your compelling reason for sharing it with your audience? Dig deeper than the first reason that comes to your mind. What’s important about that?
In chapter 3 of my book Giving Voice to Your Cause, I share Gary Yazwa’s story of getting so clear on his why, he helped raise $250,000,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. When you’re crystal clear on why you’re speaking, not only will you get over stage fright, but you’ll be on your way to making a real difference in the world.
2) Get plenty of practice speaking before a nonjudgmental group. Most people automatically think of nonjudgmental as not being critical, but surprisingly it goes for positive comments as well. When a speaker hears comments on what people like, it can lead them further down the road of wanting approval. This is one of the trickiest parts of my group coaching. I have participants comment on how they felt while they were listening rather than anything about the speaker. This radical shift allows the speaker to speak with their true voice knowing no one is going to say anything about them. Sure, there’s a place for feedback from an expert, but to get over stage fright quickly, this is one of the best things you can do for yourself. No expectations, no judgments