The only available space was essentially a storefront space in the same building, nearly too small for the group , with tables and chairs packed in tight rows, and windows to the street so any passerby could watch us, if they cared to. Yes, this is a group of writers and reporters and folks who aren’t shy about asking people things in public settings. (One I’m always coaching speakers to plan ahead, then be ready for anything on the ground. That's two different mindsets: One to get ready, rehearsing for the ideal; two, to toss that out the window and take what the situation brings.

Visualize your success at the lectern. 'When When you visualize your success, you will be successful.' Check the audio/visual equipment as needed. Then the group will not feel like strangers to you. Here are some tips to reduce speech anxiety that I have gleaned from working with professional speakers over the last 24 years. Arrive early and become familiar with the room in which you will give your presentation.

MY PROFILE EVENTS INSIDE NSA TOOLS MEMBER SERVICES CHAPTERS/GROUPS PUBLICATIONS BLOGS Related Topics

It's also important to get to know program managers from a variety of groups, organizations, clubs and companies, to ensure that you have wider opportunities to speak . Here are 18 questions to ask a speaker program manager to help you land a speaking slot --and to make the most of it once you get it: About the program manager: What are your priorities when you choose a speaker for this group? About If you're serious about public speaking, at some point you'll be working with a program manager--the person who arranges events and speakers--to get yourself on a program. Stephanie's

Here's my checklist of steps you should take after a speech, and these tips work for meeting presentations and small-group talks as well as formal speeches: Thank those who invited you. That may be a program committee or individual organizer, as well as anyone who recommended you as a speaker to the group in question. Did someone (or a group) rally around to help you get through it? Plenty of speakers focus on preparation and delivery. But in week 13 of Stephanie's online coaching, I want to be sure she--and all of you--keep in mind what happens after your speech.

I just got back from a fabulous quickie trip to San Diego where I delivered a training at a gorgeous resort to a group of fun and willing participants (welcome, ECGMC blog visitors!). What can you do to help the process along and make sure that you're able to do your part in giving the most value to the group you're serving? If the group doesn't express a lot of fear of public speaking, It's always satisfying to work with an organization that's on the ball, organized, well-prepared and cares enough about their own people to make sure everything is in place for them to get the most out of a training or conference.

can walk right up to a group or a person to make eye contact. If you're going this route, be sure to work with the audio-visual technicians to be sure your microphone can move with you). Choosing whether you'll use or lose the lectern is a major factor in adding presence to your presentation. In this week's coaching session for Stephanie Benoit, I want to give her enough to consider so she can choose the speaking style and setting that works best for her.