MARTHA SCHWERMADISON AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

ORAL & INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION

Developing Confidence Through Public Speaking

Accessibility Note: For a transcript, please look at the bottom of each slide.

Definition of Public Speaking Apprehension

Public Speaking Apprehension is a type of communication anxiety; it is the level of fear a person experiences when anticipating or actually speaking in front of an audience

Causes of Public Speaking Apprehension

Biologically-based temperament, like introversion.

Previous negative experiencesLack of experienceNegative self-talk in general (habit)

Photo by ThisYearsLove.Happy Dog, Embarrassed Dog.

Coping with Public Speaking Apprehension

Public speaking apprehension— Get over it by getting on with it!

Force yourself to give speeches. It DOES get easier !

The best way to keep public speaking apprehension at bay: PREPARE!

You don’t want to be rid of ALL nervousness.

Photo by Chris Hunleker. Woman prepping for ocean swim.

Phases of Speaking Apprehension

Adaptation ReactionThe nervousness you feel as you begin to

speak.

Confrontation ReactionThe nervousness you feel as you begin to speak.

Anticipation reaction: Anxiety you feel before you begin to speak

5 Methods to Reduce Public Speaking Apprehension

Communication orientation motivation (COM) technique

Visualization techniqueSystematic desensitization

techniqueCognitive restructuring

techniquePublic speaking skills

training technique

Basic Public Speaking Tips to Prevent or Reduce Anxiety

Specific techniques to reduce public speaking apprehension:Allow sufficient time to preparePractice (and time) your speech aloudChoose an appropriate time & environment

for speakingUse positive self-talkFocus on your message