Anxious About a Presentation?

We all more or less like to present ourselves properly and well to others. Many of us feel anxious about whether we made a mistake or did something embarrassing. And we are probably most anxious when we have to face a presentation or a viva.

In daily life, at work or in studies, we often need to give presentations or present ourselves. Anxiety about presentations is a fairly common problem. Sadly, despite having enough knowledge and skill, we often cannot express much simply because we cannot present it well. Yet this skill is very important at work and in education. Below are some methods, grouped into sections, for handling presentation anxiety and making your presentation better.

Preparation in advance

• Build your knowledge: Gain complete knowledge of your topic. The more you know, the more easily you can speak and the less likely you are to forget. Thinking in advance about possible questions improves your Q&A skills and builds mental readiness.
• Structure your talk: Prepare a script as much as possible beforehand — what to include, whether to use audio/visual material, and how to arrange it.
• Practise repeatedly: The more you practise your script, the more comfortably you can present. If possible, rehearse in front of someone familiar and take their feedback; this will boost your confidence.

What to do just before

• Arrive as early as possible so you become familiar with the venue and feel less anxious.
• Get acquainted and chat with the participants — this helps you feel at ease.
• Do breathing exercises or another relaxation method before you start.
• Drink water; it keeps your throat from going dry and helps you stay calm.
• Positive self-talk: Thoughts like "I can do it, I'm well prepared" greatly reduce anxiety. If negative thoughts dominate, be sure to talk to a specialist.

What to do during the presentation

• Delivery technique: Don't rush — speak slowly and in an organised way; rushing can make words trip up or break your focus. Prior practice makes your talk more relevant and fluent.
• Body language: Project a confident posture. Smiling relaxes the nervous system and helps you connect with the audience, but make sure it isn't excessive or mechanical. Standing or moving rather than sitting builds confidence.

Keep in mind that if the fear or anxiety is excessive, it is essential to talk to a specialist psychologist.