Stage fright is the fear that affects a person when about to face an audience. The symptoms can vary — they include a dry mouth, a tight throat, sweaty cold hands, nausea, rapid pulse, shaky knees and trembling lips.
To begin with, you must first change your opinion about audiences. You tend to think that those watching you are your worst critics. On the contrary, most of them want you to succeed and are glad that they are not the ones up there speaking!
* Once you are up on stage, try to pick out the most responsive listeners as soon as you can. They are the ones that are listening attentively. Look at them frequently and speak as if you’re talking to them.Maintain eye contact with your listeners.
* If possible involve the audience wherever you can. You can make it an interactive session by inviting questions.
* Practise thoroughly beforehand so that at least your opening sentences come automatically even if you are nervous.
* Dress smartly. It will boost your confidence immensely.
* Use your normal accent and diction. A fake accent may make you nervous and also put people off.
* Write down the points you have to speak about on small cards to jolt your memory.
* Before you step on stage try relaxation techniques like listening to soft music or breathing deeply.
* Don’t hold your notes in your hands — the audience can see them shake.Keep them on a table near you.
* If you are trembling, lean on a table or lectern or shift your legs and move about a little.