Odyssey 2010

The Confidence to Speak in Public

Public speaking is undoubtedly a nerve-wracking experience and one that never gets any easier. This blog will seek to increase the reader's confidence and offer useful advice on writing speeches and speaking successfully in public. The key to public speaking is knowing that the address is well-written and will appeal to the target audience. Trying not to actually cover too many topics in a short space of time, and to simply concentrate on the primary message of the speech. Discover the process to narrow the topic down that can be used time and time again, along with the best methods of research.

Qualities of an Effective Public Speaker

11 Jun 2021

Getting your voice out in public is not an easy thing, but with the right qualities, public speaking can be a no-brainer. An effective public speaker must be confident, charismatic, and passionate about their career. They should also have the ability to simplify their message for the audience.

The Importance of Humour in Public Speaking

3 May 2021

It's one thing to be an excellent public speaker, but it is quite another to be humorous. Incorporating humour in your speech gives your audience emotional relief, keeps your listeners engaged, and creates a good rapport between you and your fans, among other benefits.

5 Tips for Beating Stage Fright

29 Mar 2021

Ever experienced fear or anxiety when you had to speak in front of an audience? Without any guidance, public speaking can be like playing online slots: pretty unpredictable. This short guide might be of interest to you if you need tips on how to tackle stage fright.

Go through the list and select one or more pieces of advice.

1. Relax and imagine it

First, you need to find a quiet place and a comfortable position. Close your eyes, take a deep breath. Do this over and over again. Play some music in the background. Then start imagining yourself in the situation. Be detailed. Imagine every step. See yourself as confident. Feel focused all along. Try to visualize the good outcome also. Do this many times a day for about five minutes or longer.

2. Rehearse

Put on the suit/dress you are going to wear. Rehearse the whole process in the safety of your home but try to make it look professional. It is helpful to have some notes, but you can skip this part as your skills evolve.
You can practice in front of a mirror. Try to look into your own eyes, even if it feels odd in the first place.

Or you can ask your family or friends to assist you. They should put on formal clothes and prepare a little business-like scene. After that, they should play roles and ask you questions related to your topic. If there is nothing specific to talk about, they can start asking you random questions.

3. Positive affirmations

Some people are skeptical when it comes to the usefulness of this technique. But they tend to forget something: don't dream too big! Don't say "I'm a natural-born speaker!" if it feels like a lie. Negative sentences don't work here either. Saying "I am not anxious when I speak." will be ineffective.

Go simpler: "I wobble sometimes, but I can get back into balance". Write down a few positive statements. Look for the relief. Put this sheet of paper in your pocket or on your desk. Repeat the affirmations throughout the day.

If you start feeling better, you can try to add extra words or brand new statements to the existing ones. You may decide to delete one at a later point.

4. Relaxation methods

This can be anything that makes you relaxed. Do anything that calms you down. Drink a coffee or read a book. Some people prefer training or cooking.
You can also call a friend for a little chit-chat. Don't tell them about it, be spontaneous.
You can do a combination of various activities, too. Do this right before starting your performance. Sometimes keeping your mind off the task is an effective way to get better results.

Bear in mind that you should use this method combined with another one.

5. Seek professional advice

In serious cases, these tips don't work or even worsen your state. We are not the same, but that doesn't mean you can't do this. If this is what you experience, do not hesitate. It would help if you looked for a therapist or a coach. It can cost you a lot, but it's a smart investment in your future.

Benefits of Public Speaking

22 Mar 2021

Speaking in public is undoubtedly not everyone's cup of tea. That's because not all people have the courage to face, and talk in front of, a crowd. On top of boosting confidence, public speaking improves your communication skills, and it can make you famous, among other benefits.