Fear of speaking in public is a common but irrational phobia. After all, nobody ever died from stage fright. Realize that it's actually OK to be nervous about public speaking. Your fears don't have to affect your speaking success. In fact, acknowledging them to yourself can help you become a better speaker.
Join Toastmasters
Toastmasters International groups are located throughout the United States and many other countries. The purpose of Toastmasters is to help people become more competent and comfortable in front of an audience. During meetings, you'll have the opportunity to practice public speaking and learn more about what makes a speaker effective.
Don't be so Hard on Yourself
Nobody is scrutinizing you as closely as you are. Most people are actually preoccupied with themselves, and are more concerned about their own possible missteps than about yours. They're likely not homing in on your mistakes. In the unlikely event that you make a mistake and someone actually notices, consider that they're likely to identify with you and be sympathetic, not hostile.
What's the Worst that Could Happen?
Ask yourself, "What's the worst that could happen?" Indeed, what if you actually do lose your place during your speech, stutter, stumble on your way to the podium or make jokes that fall flat? You'd experience some moments of embarrassment, and then you'd go on. Yes, it would be awkward, but no tragedy would ensue. Keep a realistic perspective on what really could go wrong. Chances are, not very much will go wrong.
Focus on the Benefit to Your Audience
You're speaking in public because presumably you have something important to convey and your audience needs to hear it. Think about how your audience will benefit and learn from your speech. Imagine your talk as a gift that they will welcome. Hopefully, you are providing them with interesting, useful or valuable information. If you're merely imposing your own ideas or values on them, rethink your message.
Talk to One Person, Not to the Crowd
As you deliver your speech, pick a friendly-looking person in the audience. Look directly at her and say a full sentence--or even more--just to her. Repeat as necessary with different people in the room. It's often easier to talk to individuals than to a faceless crowd.
Practice Makes Perfect
Rehearse your speech in front of family, friends or a mirror until you know it cold. Anticipate any questions that might be asked, and practice the answers. Your knowledge of the material will give you--and the audience--confidence.
Don't Apologize
Don't talk about being nervous or apologize for missteps. You'll just reinforce them in yourself. Besides, such talk is beside the point. Your audience is there to hear what you have to say, not to critique your demeanor.
Get to Know Your Audience
Be present as your audience arrives, and meet and greet some of them individually. It is easier to talk to people that you know rather than addressing strangers.
Accept Your Anxiety
Remember that it is very common to be nervous when speaking before an audience. Anxiety is just a feeling, not a prediction that something will actually go wrong. See if you can simply accept that some anxiety may always be there. You don't have to fully get rid of your fear of public speaking in order to be a dynamic and successful speaker.
Get Coaching
If you plan to speak in public a lot or if your job depends on it, consider hiring a private speech coach or take public speaking courses. More familiarity about what makes for a persuasive speech and how to deliver it can dispel speech-day jitters.
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