4 Tips to Beat “Glossophobia”: What It Is & How To Overcome
Have you ever had to stand up in a company meeting, present a project, or even pitch a new client and freeze? Guess what? You are not alone! In fact, more than 75% of the population has experienced some fear, or dread, around public speaking. Research has shown that the fear of public speaking outweighs the fear of snakes, heights, and even death! (University of Minnesota) It’s actually called “glossophobia,” and it can happen anywhere, at any time; in the workplace, in a job interview, in a classroom, or even at a party or networking event. You might be the most intelligent person with the most interesting things to say, but when you become the center of attention, all bets are off. Your voice starts to quiver, you can’t catch your breath, beads of perspiration start rolling down from your forehead, you start adding unnecessary filler words—the um’s, and ah’s that take up precious time—and panic may even set in.
The good news is that it is normal to be afraid and no matter where you are today with your ability and/or comfort to speak in public, everyone can get better at it. No one is born knowing how to speak effectively. It is a learned skill. Improving your skills as a public speaker will take you to new levels of success both personally and professionally. Having had a career as a journalist, keynote speaker, and executive communications coach, I believe that any communication, whether one-on-one, in a small group, on a stage, or even on a conference call, it’s all “public speaking.”
Being a good communicator is being a good public speaker. So, how can you get better at it? Incorporate a practice I titled “Liz’s 4 C’s,” Confidence, Content, Clarity, and Conversational.
Confidence: How do you become a confident public speaker? Preparation is key. Far too often, many people believe they can simply “wing it.” “80% of your success comes from preparation.” (Helpmates.com) Preparation is more powerful than perfection. Being prepared gives you confidence, which leads to command, and presence. This “it factor” is what helps to make you memorable. Even if your audience doesn’t remember every single word you say, to quote poet Maya Angelou, “...people will remember how you made them feel.”
(Your) Content: It’s the “story.” Everything is a story. Storytelling is a public speaker’s secret weapon, and putting your message together in the right way can make a huge difference in how you made people feel, and how your remarks are remembered. Consider what’s in the message for your audience. Are you sharing a story addressing what’s important to them? Why should they spend time listening to what you have to say? I ask my clients these questions all the time when they are preparing to speak on anything: a new strategy, their latest research, or a pitch for new business. Use real examples and interesting stories that will resonate with your audience. This is another way to make sure you are memorable for the right reasons.
Clarity of your content: What’s the story behind the numbers or research? That’s providing context which leads to clarity. Can everyone understand what you are saying? Too many speakers use too much industry jargon and not everyday language. Use simple language and shorter sentences. Not only will it be easier for you to deliver, but it will be much more interesting to your audience.
Conversational: Delivering your story (your content) in a conversational way is key. Use what I call “vocal variety:” What you say, how you say it, and how you sound saying it matters. When delivering your message, “vocal variety” means varying your tone, pitch, and pace to make your speech more engaging. Speak clearly and project your voice to ensure everyone can hear you. Pause for effect and allow the audience to absorb what you have said without the need to fill the silence.
And yes, you must also practice, practice, practice, rehearse, rehearse, rehearse, out loud. There’s a muscle memory that happens between your brain and your mouth when you practice out loud. I’ve developed a very specific methodology of practicing backward. I use it myself and my clients tell me it works for them too. Plus, record yourself. Are you using “Liz’s 4 C’s?” Do you sound confident? Do you have clarity of your content and are you delivering it in a conversational way? I know, it’s not easy sometimes to listen to ourselves, but it is a way to ensure that your message is on point in all ways.
Finally, if you typically get nervous, practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing exercises can help you to find a way to channel that nervousness into enthusiasm and passion. Remind yourself of why your presentation matters to your audience.
Incorporating all of these public speaking techniques will help you learn to be a better communicator, a better public speaker and lessen those anxious “glossophobia” feelings.
We may not be as good as Winston Churchill or Eleanor Roosevelt, but neither should that be the goal. Communicate, connect, and engage your audience with authenticity, confidence, and command. That is how you will be remembered.
Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?
Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.
