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If you get nervous, don't drink coffee before having to give a speech! I am terrified of public speaking...that was honestly one of the hardest classes I have ever had to take in school, and I put it off until the last minute because I dreaded it! You will also have presentations in nursing classes....but they will most likely be group presentations. Although I hated group work, going up in front of the class with your group is less scary than going up by yourself.
I tell everyone that if *I* can go up and talk in front of a crowd, anyone can!
In my public speaking class everyone was nervous. When I get nervous my hands shake and my face turns red and my mouth is dry; this happens to me every speech. But, really, no one expects you to be an experienced speaker who never makes mistakes or says um. I put more pressure on myself than anyone else did, including the teacher, which also added to my fear of failure. I have had to give speeches in three other classes so far, including two English classes and a chemistry lab. I didn't love any of them, but I practiced beforehand and didn't do too badly. As long as you are well-prepared and remember to breathe, you will be fine.
2nd career RN. My 1st career included hundreds of presentations to audiences that ranged from 1 to 1,000. Big & small companies, ceo's to regular employees, consumers, local/state/federal/foreign governments, mostly receptive, some hostile. Public speaking is scary but can be managed and you can grow to love it.
My suggestions:
- know your material. Note cards are ok for referencing but don't read from them.
- if an audience, size doesn't matter, then divide in quarters, pick a target in each and pitch to them in order. As you scan from target to target, you'll "make" eye contact with the entire room.
- have water available. Dry mouth or a cough can be fixed.
- don't lead with a joke unless you're a natural comedian.
- practice in front of a mirror and family/friends.
- the more public speaking you do, the better you get. Like almost everything.
- have fun with it. Be a star.
Good luck.
Go for it! I, too, dreaded public speaking, but became a lot more confident after my public speaking class. The best advice I can give you is to practice, practice, practice. Practice in front of a mirror. Record yourself giving the speech and watch for nervous things you do such as swaying, saying um, playing with your hair, etc. Have someone you trust watch you give your speech and have them give you tips and encouragement. You can do it!
ayepacheco
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I have been a Lpn for a few years and want to go for my Rn but I am terrified of public speaking. Any advice? Also do you have to give speeches in other classes?