re: "Speaking to large groups" knower abouters

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Those who've done this before: got any advice for a first-timer?

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Take a beta-blocker like Propranolol. It decreases anxiety. You can probably just call your doc and he'll call in the scrip.

When you get to feeling anxious find someone you know well out in the crowd and just focus on them for a few seconds.

I speak 5-10 times per year to groups. If you are well prepared and knowledgeable, you will be fine. Don't use humor or tell funny stories unless are know how to do it. Be yourself.

The first time, know that you will be nervous for the first minute or so. The audience won't likely know it.

Don't read to them.

Tell a personal joke maybe about your fear of speaking to start off

Don’t read shite

Practice practice practice

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If you know your stuff, just talk dude

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This. Slides move the audience's attention to the slide.

I used to do the announcing for the basketball games in HS, but it wasn't really in front of people so beyond that the biggest crowd I ever spoke in front of was probably in a speech class and I made myself sick thinking about having to do it.

If its about a specific topic and there is structure to it, I will stress myself out from the time I know I will have to do it until I am done with it.

If its more of a "free style" and I can gain control of the audience in my own way I love doing it.

As for as advice, I would say you are already in good shape if you know exactly what you are talking about and know the material. Will the people you are talking to know more about the material you will be talking about?

If not then you can find comfort in knowing that if you find yourself in a position where you might have to wig it a little, no one will likely notice. Its easier said than done, but just pretend like you are having a one on one conversation.

If you can deliver a successful attention getter then you will be in control the rest of the way.

Take 2 shots of rumplemintz before

Your material; have fun!

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Practice, practice, practice. Watch your Uhhs.

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This. I have to do a lot of presentations. In fact I did one yesterday. I always practice my presentations several times. I’ll even give a presentation to my wife and daughter to get their input.

As for when you’re at the podium, relax and focus your thoughts on the material you’re presenting. Don’t stand rigid and give the impression you’re simply reading slides. Paraphrase and summarize the material. You don’t want to leave your hands down at your side or clasp them in front of you like a goodun. Instead use natural, not exaggerated, hand gestures like you would in normal conversation. Also, move your eye contact from person to person. By that I don’t mean go down rows looking at each person in order. But let your gaze go from one point of the room to another in a natural manner. Don’t sound robotic or speak on a monotone manner. Just as you should have natural hand movements, so too you should have natural inflections in your speech. But always remember you’re giving a professional presentation. Speak clearly and in a friendly, welcoming, though not too familiar manner, as though you’re talking with your college buddies.

Hope this helps.