Summary of the UD Women's Leadership Series

I attended the Women's Leadership Series session called "Overcoming Your Fear of Public Speaking". Here is the information that I found most interesting.

The Oral Communication Fellows are a new resource for you to use if you have trouble with public speaking. You can make an appointment with them. More information

There is a performance/arousal curve. You need to have some arousal (anxiety) to perform your best.

Tips Before Your Presentation:

• Practice, practice, PRACTICE!
  
• Put yourself in the shoes of your audience. WII-FM: "What's in it for me?"
  
• Powerpoint slides should contain no more than 4 colors/slide and titles should be around 44 points.
  

Tips for During Your Presentation:

• Take a deep breath before starting
  
• Speak slowly, which will give you time to think of what you're saying next (You're not speaking as slowly as you think you are.)
  
• Gestures help you get rid of extra energy
  
• Write hints on your outline about transitions or something to ease your anxiety
  
• Pull your hair back if you're prone to play with your hair during the presentation
  
• Repeat startling points
  
• Ask the audience questions, pause, and get a response
  
• Roll your shoulders back to make sure you're standing up straight