Question 1

What is the biggest anxiety that people suffer from in North America?

Accepted Answer

It is not snakes or rodents, but public speaking. Learn how to avoid the fear of speaking in small groups, making a presentation to a large one. We're here to help guide you and build your confidence to handle any public speaking situation.

Question 2

What is glossophobia?

Accepted Answer

It is the fear of people speaking in public. According to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health in March 2012, approximately 74% suffer from this anxiety. Based on our many years of public speaking coaching in Canada, we believe the numbers are similar.

Question 3

I'm really nervous before I have to get up and speak, how can I calm down?

Accepted Answer

To relax it is best to remember to breathe and visualize your success.

Question 4

I speak too quickly, how can I slow down?

Accepted Answer

In between your phrasing count two beats or seconds.

Question 5

Why do I feel as though I "sound out of breath" each time I speak?

Accepted Answer

Most people breathe from their chest area. Try taking in deeply through your nose and fill up your diaphragm (the area between your belly button and your rib cage) then speak.

Question 6

How to slow down your speech delivery?

Accepted Answer

Try standing up when you speak, this will increase your energy. Also, use your hands. Hope that helps.

Question 7

How to use a microphone?

Accepted Answer

Don't use your dominant hand otherwise you will end up shaking the microphone when trying to make gestures. Keep it about 6 inches from your mouth.

Question 8

Learn to speak off the top of your head?

Accepted Answer

Thinking on the spot is a crucial talent to have. I would put together a list of topics and practice with a friend going back and forth.

Question 9

What do you think about stage movement when speaking?

Accepted Answer

Stage placement and movement is really important. Think about how actors move on stage to impact their performance. If you find you don't move at all, use masking tape to guide you through your movements for every part of your speech. Page 1 — center, page 2 — right side, and so on. Move forward to the audience to get close to them. Remember it's not what you say, but how every part of your body says it.

Question 10

Should I use a PowerPoint?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to using visual aids they should enhance your presentation. Since you're dealing with numbers I would use a PowerPoint. Remember to use pictures and simple charts, or single words. Please don't put your full speech on the slides and read them to the audience. Know your material and tell them your story.

Question 11

How can I get rid of my accent?

Accepted Answer

I tell people never lose your accent as it makes you unique. Now there are exercises you can do to reduce your accent that will help you speak with more clarity. Drop me an email.

Question 12

Do you provide on-site training?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I can come to your office for private training and workshops. We have found that it is often best for private (one-on-one) training to be done in a meeting room versus the person's office to avoid distractions and interruptions. We also provide training through Zoom.

Question 13

Are you available for urgent media crisis support as a consultant?

Accepted Answer

If such an occasion arises please phone and email me to ensure that I receive your message immediately. I will make myself available to provide the coaching to prepare you or your executive team. For example, it could be for an interview, reading a statement, or preparing for a video you may wish to post on YouTube to get your message out. Often I recommend that more than the PR Manager and President should be trained due to the nature of crises and staff availability.

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