I have been blessed at being a solid public speaker, and plenty of people ask me what the "secrets" are.
Top of my list is simple: be yourself and embrace the nerves.
The people who look most natural up there are usually the most nervous. I always have butterflies before talking to a crowd.
I've coached a lot of executives, developers, and candidates over the years, and almost every one of them gets nervous before they walk on stage. The difference is what they do with it.
The pros pause. They breathe. They collect themselves. They speak like who they are and talk to the audience like friends and family.
We all get nervous before we speak. Don't run from it, but find your way to overcome it. And more than anything, be yourself.
Try it next time and you won't go wrong.
Need coaching for an upcoming keynote, panel, or media appearance? Get in touch.