TURNING ANXIETY INTO EXCITEMENT

Ashley Moores gives her tips and tricks for new speakers

Have you ever been to a conference and thought to yourself “I could do that?” Let’s start with how to find conferences and submit a couple of abstracts. There are different ways you can do this. You can either start with conferences you have attended, or search conferences accepting abstracts in places you would like to visit.

Most abstract submissions have criteria you need to follow so you need to present your topic in such a way that will support the criteria put forth. You need to consider your area of expertise in the place you are presenting as well, say you are a nurse presenting on injecting in a country that does not allow nurses to inject. You need to be aware of your audience, these abstracts may not be accepted. Once you have been accepted this is when the nerves set in because typically abstracts are based on an idea.

Stepping onto a stage for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, with the right mindset and preparation, anxiety can transform into pure excitement. Passion has a remarkable way of doing that — when you love something deeply, the desire to share it with others takes over. Here are some tips and tricks to help new speakers turn their anxiety into excitement.

1. EMBRACE YOUR PASSION

Passion is your greatest asset. When you truly care about your topic, it shows. If the subject of your presentation is something you are deeply passionate about, let that passion shine through. It will not only make your presentation more engaging but also help you overcome nervousness.

2. PREPARE THOROUGHLY

Preparation is key to feeling confident on stage. Spend ample time preparing your presentation, rehearsing your speech, and familiarising yourself with the content. Knowing your material inside and out helps you deliver your message clearly and boosts your confidence. Consider practising in front of friends or colleagues and ask for feedback.

3. START WITH A STRONG OPENING

Your opening sets the tone for your entire presentation. Start with a strong, attention-grabbing introduction. Share a compelling story or a striking fact to draw your audience in. A strong opening can capture attention and make you feel more in control. Don’t just read the title of your presentation, create an opening hook.

4. FOCUS ON CONNECTION, NOT PERFECTION

It’s easy to get caught up in trying to deliver a perfect presentation. However, it’s more important to focus on connecting with your audience. Keep them engaged by asking the audience questions. Tell a joke if it feels warranted to get people to laugh with you, not at you. This not only keeps your audience interested but also makes your presentation more dynamic. Encouraging your audience to share their experiences and insights can make the session more interactive and enriching.

5. BE AUTHENTIC

The easiest thing to do when you’re presenting is to just be YOU. Authenticity resonates with people and helps you connect with your audience on a deeper level. Do not be afraid to share your unique perspective and experiences.

6. MANAGE YOUR ANXIETY

Feeling anxious before a presentation is normal. Find techniques that work for you to manage this anxiety. Deep breathing exercises and visualisation can be incredibly helpful. Visualise yourself succeeding and focus on the positive outcome. It’s okay to feel nervous; channel that energy into your presentation. Remember no one knows you are nervous besides you.

7. LEARN FROM EACH EXPERIENCE

Every speaking opportunity is a chance to learn and grow. Reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Continuous improvement is key to becoming a better speaker. Record yourself on stage so you know what areas to improve upon.

8. SEEK FEEDBACK

Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your audience and peers. Depending on the setting, you may be on a board where you can seek the opinion of advanced presenters. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights into how you can improve. The connections you make can provide incredible feedback that helps refine your skills.

9. KEEP PUSHING YOURSELF

Finally, keep pushing yourself to take on new speaking opportunities. The more you speak, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become. If you make just one connection, you are doing something right.

In conclusion, speaking on any stage can be a transformative experience. By embracing your passion, preparing thoroughly, and focusing on connection and authenticity, you can turn your anxiety into excitement. Remember, every presentation is a step towards becoming a more confident and effective speaker. Together, speakers can make any industry more inclusive and supportive, one connection at a time.

ASHLEY MOORES

Ashley Moores is a seasoned nurse with over a decade of medical experience and three years in the aesthetics industry. Recently, she embarked on an exciting new business venture as the co-owner of The Silver Clinic, where she is committed to enhancing client conf idence through natural beauty. In addition to her clinical work, Moores is the host of the popular podcast The Silver Edition, where she shares insights on aesthetics and connects with industry professionals.