What is one technique for managing speech anxiety?

Preparation and practice are fundamental techniques for managing speech anxiety. When individuals prepare effectively for their presentations, they become more familiar with the material they are going to discuss. This familiarity fosters confidence, enabling speakers to feel more in control during their delivery. By rehearsing their speech, they can refine their content, improve their delivery, and reduce uncertainty. This practice also allows for the identification of potential pitfalls and the development of strategies to address them, further alleviating anxiety.

Conversely, reading from notes without preparation, avoiding eye contact, or speaking without rehearsing can heighten anxiety. These behaviors often lead to a lack of connection with the audience, diminished clarity in communication, and increased nervousness, as speakers may feel unprepared or vulnerable in front of their listeners. Therefore, the best approach to mitigate speech anxiety is through thorough preparation and consistent practice.