Dear Career Coach,
I get very nervous at the thought of public speaking and I’ve been told that in my new role, I will be expected to deliver presentations to our senior leadership team. How can I conquer my nerves and deliver presentations more professionally?

Although it’s probably of little comfort to you, public speaking is often identified in surveys as being the number one thing that people fear. Even the most articulate and confident people can quake at the thought of addressing a roomful of people, so you are not alone in feeling intimated by the idea.

When we focus on ourselves and how we are feeling about a situation, we lose sight of the point of the exercise: to communicate. The fact is that when you are delivering a presentation at work, it is your chance to share your knowledge and insights with people who not only need the information that you have, but who can also be influential in progressing your career. For that reason, it’s important not to waste the opportunity by putting your energy into how you are feeling. Instead , concentrate on what you want them to learn and to remember about you.

The following tips will help you with planning and delivering a great presentation.

Ultimately, the most effective safeguard against nerves is preparation. The more you practice to deliver the presentation and prepare for any follow-up questions, the less stressed you will feel.

All the best!