Some people fear public speaking so much they would rather get a root canal, organize several years of tax returns, or deal with a migraine!! Speaking in front of others can be a stressful event, but it doesn’t have to be negative stress. A little bit can inspire or motivate you to be your very best. I like the way the organization Dale Carnegie puts it: It’s ok to have butterflies fluttering in your stomach, just make sure they are flying in order. Below are some tips that can help you reduce the stress induced by public speaking. I’m confident if you use these tips in a few of your presentations, over time, there will be nothing to fear about speaking in public.

Prepare, prepare, prepare: If you stress too much about public speaking, “winging it” is not for you. (That’s an entire topic I will address in detail on how to handle those speaking opportunities). Although I am not a fan of the “canned” speech approach, there is something to be said about preparing the order of your speech and preparing certain sentences or punch lines so that they have the greatest effect. Preparation also allows your brain to consider certain obstacles you can be prepared for in advance and it will build your confidence.

Remember that you were asked to speak: I believe this is lost on a lot of people. The majority of the time, people are asked in advance to talk about a subject that only they can address. You should be honored that your opinion is requested and that you are viewed as someone capable of delivering this information.

Know your subject matter well: If you take the first two steps seriously, then this step should be very easy. If there is anything about your subject you do not know 100%, look it up. Audiences appreciate it if you do not have all the answers, but through your words they can assess you did your due diligence.

Always speak with passion: No matter what the subject is, and how dry you believe it may be, spice it up and let your passion show. You can add humor or drama. But if your audience sees your passion about the subject, you will not only keep their attention as you deliver your speech, you might even convince a few people to take a greater interest in what you are talking about.

Use real world examples and stories: People can relate to these. It not only maintains their attention, it also helps them take your subject and compare it to what they might be experiencing or had experienced.

Relate to your audience: This also ties into the tip above. But my primary point in this tip is the importance of involving your audience by relating to them. Engage them, ask them real questions and not just rhetorical questions. If you do so in a manner that is not threatening, your audience will really appreciate you.

Welcome feedback: This is always the hardest part in anything, not just speaking events. Even if the feedback you receive is not delivered constructively, try to see the positive points. Hear the person out and focus only on the parts you know are true and make every effort to improve for the future.

These tips are broad and just scratching the surface. I could write an entire essay just on how to prepare for your speech or on how to read your audience. But if at a minimum you follow this advice, your butterflies will fly in the order.