Hi Van,

I'm in complete concurrence with the rest of the posts - jitters are normal - and good. I think of it as energy; it just needs to be focused.

How each speaker handles that is highly variable, but there is nothing like mileage!

One of the very best ways to get mileage, in a supportive environment, with lots of feedback and encouragement is to join Toastmasters. There is almost certainly a club in your area and the process is a tremendous benefit to all speakers - novice and experienced.

Through Toastmasters you can find many ways to channel that energy and get feedback from a supportive group. It's tough to find many professional speakers who have not been a Toastmaster during their career.

Good luck, take a deep breath and think positive thoughts!

Two suggestions on the short term/tactical side:

1. Practice some positive self-talk
2. Do a deep breathing exercise shortly before class

Best,
Sean

Hi Serra,

Thanks for your reply. Greta advise and I have been and will contiue to practice my material on-going.

We utlize what is called a parking lot in the class when we need to research a question further, the students are provided with an answer on the same day or by the following morning.

CGR,

Thanks for your reply / encouragement. I have never heard of Toastmasters, however I will certainly look into it.

Thanks for sharing.

Hi Del,

Great words of wisdom, thanks so very much for sharing. I am constantly reviewing my material, and you are right, I have found that it does help build my confidence level.

I will continue to work on all of the points mentioned in the post.

I must say, I am really glad that I joined ASTD.