Help With Your Phobia Of Public Speaking: Learn To Use Gestures

Phobia Of Public Speaking

To some extent everyone has a fear of public speaking: even the most seasoned professional speaker knows the importance of a speech, and therefore feels anxiety, which she learns to channel into energy. However, for some people, the fear of public speaking grows into a serious phobia, which takes great effort to overcome.

Many overwhelming thoughts and concerns are related to a phobia of public speaking, but one in particular can be difficult to overcome: What do you do with your hands while you're speaking?
Uncertainty about how to use gestures in a speech can contribute to this all-too-common phobia, and derail an otherwise great presentation. However, you'll be relieved to know that solving the age-old issue of what to do with your hands is simpler than you think.

1: Use Open Gestures
Opening up your gestures can make you more accessible to your audience. Lifting your arms from your shoulders will give your movements a freedom and fluidity that your audience will definitely notice. In contrast, moving only your forearms when gesturing will tend to make you hunch over and look smaller.
You should gesture at the audience with an open palm and a straight arm. Pointing at audience members is rarely a good idea unless you're asking a specific person a question.
Finally, don't clench your fists! A fist clench can make your entire body tense up. You should always strive to project an air of openness and approachability.

2: Move Towards The Audience
When speaking in front of a group, you may feel an irresistible urge to make a dash for the nearest exit. Don't give in! In fact, you should do the exact opposite. It may be difficult, but audiences appreciate a speaker who can move towards and amongst them without fear.
If you're on a stage, you should walk towards your audience. If you're behind a podium or table, you should lean forward a little as you speak.

3: Match Gestures To Your Content
A somber topic calls for small, slow gestures, while an exciting one may call for big gestures and expansive movements. Likewise, don't gesture downward if you're talking about something rising, and vice-versa.

4: Practice Your Gestures Beforehand
Practicing your hand and arm movements before a speech is highly recommended. If possible, find a friend who is willing to critique your movements. If you wish, you can practice in front of a mirror or videotape yourself.

If you put these ideas into practice, you can greatly improve the quality of your speeches. Not only will you boost your confidence, but you'll also lessen the power of your phobia of public speaking.

Get your free public speaking e-book here: http://products.speaktoyoursuccess.com/public-speaking-nerves/. Norm Rebin is part of a family of professional speakers. Collectively, Norm, Delva and Niki Rebin have spoken to, trained or coached over one million people. For more speaking and success tips visit the Rebins here: http://speaktoyoursuccess.com.

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