Hi Guys

Does anyone have any tips for me? I've been invited to participate in a research group as my PhD is in their area of interest ( a very well established group of people). There no great pressure on me to perform but my presentation skills are awful. I can't even introduce myself without my face flushing, lips twitching, voice trembling etc. My anxiety levels are through the roof.

I can spend all day practicing what I want to say and still my mind goes blank or I end up jumping all over the place. Does anyone have advice as to how to structure a small introduction abut myself and my research. I'm currently at the research design stage (social sciences). I was hoping if someone could offer me some guidance i may hold the material better in my head. Its only 5 minutes or so :( all help welcome:(

im the same hate public speaking so cant really help with any techniques as get so nervous. Only thing I can do. Is have everything I am going to say written down. So I just read of it, and try to make sure I look up and make eye contact as much as possible. I also make sure I write on card not paper, that way if I get nervous it does not shake so bad!! I also think a good way is if possible before speaking if you can speak to the people informally, so if there is coffee before hand. That way its more like speaking to people you know. Although with me still get really nervous. Even though it is true the only thing to fear is fear itself

Hi Athena30,

I'm exactly the opposite. You can put me in front of 20,000 people and even without any major preparation I can just speak & do a good job. I'm also in the social sciences :). A few tips:

1) When I was a teen I had similar issues as I was overly shy. I realised that I was also conscious about my appearance. So I worked on getting a nicer haircut, getting leaner, eating healthier, and even went as far as changing my wardrobe. Believe me a lot of the reason why people are shy about presentation is because when they stand in front of ppl they think they are not presentable. Subconsciously by working on these things you'll develop more confidence which will help with your speech.

2) When you practice presenting (practicing is a MUST) do it in front of friends (choose 2 or 3 friends) or family. In other words, people who know you and aren't going to be critical. Present the material in front of them and let them provide you with feedback.

3) Use cue cards: don't write what you want to say in a paper- sometimes I even take the cue cards with me on presentation day I find that they make me look professional and prepared without "overdoing" it.

4) When you stand in front of people, blank them out. Train you brain to go to a place you like- any place. If you find yourself pausing or stuttering there is no shame in saying "pardon" or "let me rephrase that in better terms".

5) Always remind yourself that the people you are presenting to aren't perfect and so if you make a mistake so what you're just like them. If you make sure you present yourself really well in terms of dress/appearance you are indirectly transmitting an aura of confidence so that people won't react negatively if you forget something during the presentation.

PM me if you want more tips- I'm blessed in that department so hope I can help.

Thank you very much for your advice. Will let you know how I get on:)