How can I be less nervous and more confident when giving a speech?

Answer 1

I agree, an outline, along with good preparation, will help more than a script. When I give public comments or presentations, I feel that having my thoughts out word for word just pressures me to stick to what I’ve written down. I try to jot down my thoughts. This way, I’m still able to say what I feel, but it comes out more naturally.

I hope what’s worked for me helps you all out as well!

Answer 2

There are several different methods that have proven effective for reducing the nervousness, anxiety, and discomfort of speaking to audiences of various sizes. Different methods work for different people. You may want to use several of the following techniques.

1. PRACTICE
2. Practicing your speech will help you get more comfortable. Some experts’ presentations seem so natural you could swear they are winging it. When in reality behind closed doors they have thoroughly prepared. They’ve mastered every part of their speech, and know it like the back of their hand. You have to be realistic about how much time you have to practice your speech. One strategy is to decide a specific amount of times you can practice your speech a day in the time leading up to your speech. The following are ways to prepare.
3. In a mirror by yourself
4. In front of a small audience of friends and family that can give you constructive feedback. Alternatively, you can use a small audience of empty seats. This will at least make your practice closer to your actual presentation. Some people even put up photos of people on the seats.
5. In front of a camera. Record yourself and review your speech. You’ll likely notice any areas that you need improvement on. It also gives you a different perspective by watching your own speech.
6. KNOW YOUR TOPIC
7. When you do your research and know your topic, there’s less temptation to feel like you have empty time you have to fill. Instead you can be more selective at choosing only the best and most persuasive points for your speech. Being knowledgeable on your topic can also help you handle Q&A more effectively. 
8. MUSIC
9. Especially instrumental music and jazz are known for having a calming effect. Listening to some music before your speech can help you to relax and lighten your nerves.
10. PRAYER
11. For those of the Christian faith prayer is a solution to anxiety. Philippians 4:6-7 in the ESV reads, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
12. GRADUAL NOTE CARD REDUCTION
13. Some speeches require us to present a significant amount of information. One key to help me be less nervous is preparation through note reduction. I will initially type out my speech, as I get more comfortable I use less notes. I go from a full typed out speech, to 8 by 5 cards, to notes that just have short phrases and a few sentences to remind me of my key points. This allows me to gradually get more comfortable with covering the information I need to cover. By the time my speech comes about, I’m able to still cover all the necessary information, without sounding stiff like some do when reading a script.
14. VISUALIZATION
15. Some visualize themselves successfully giving their speech. This can help you to have a positive expectation for the outcome of your speech. This is particularly helpful if you’ve been playing a movie in your head of your speech not working out. Visualizing your speech going well becomes the new replacement movie to start playing in your head.

There are many different ways to reduce nervousness and increase your confidence. We’ve covered some of them. When coaching you on your speech, my goal is to help you find the right techniques that fit you.