Last week I had the pleasure of presenting a keynote to 800 people at Cruise360 the annual conference for the Cruise Lines Industry Association. Yes, there was a adrenaline rush and some nervous energy but once I was “on stage” I enjoyed myself and by all accounts it went well.
Public speaking is often ranked as one of the greatest fears people have. Even as a former television presenter and now a professional speaker, I still feel those butterflies before stepping onto a stage. The difference is, I’ve learnt to manage those nerves and to have them work for me rather than against me.
Nerves are not your enemy. They are simply energy and with the right techniques, you can channel that energy into presence, confidence, and impact.
Here are my top tips to help you overcome nerves and deliver a presentation that leaves your audience inspired and engaged.
1. Reframe Your Nerves as Excitement
The first shift is in your mindset. Instead of telling yourself, “I’m so nervous,” try saying, “I’m excited to share this message.” Physiologically, nervousness and excitement feel almost identical – your heart races, palms sweat, adrenaline kicks in. By reframing nerves as enthusiasm, you instantly shift into a more positive state. Audiences respond to energy, so let yours shine through.
2. Focus on Your Audience Not Yourself
Most of our anxiety comes from worrying about how we’ll be judged. The truth is that your audience isn’t analysing your every word – they’re wondering what’s in it for them. Before you step up, remind yourself: This presentation is for them, not me. Consider their needs, challenges, and what you want them to take away. That shift in focus helps calm self-consciousness and creates connection from the outset.
3. Prepare and Practice. Then Let Go
Preparation is your greatest confidence booster. Know your material inside out, rehearse your key points, and practice aloud. If possible, test the technology and rehearse in the actual room or online platform you’ll be presenting in. Once you’ve done the work, let go of perfection. Your audience wants a genuine, human connection, not a flawless performance.
4. Master the First Minute
The opening minute is often the most nerve-racking. That’s when the adrenaline peaks. Prepare a strong opening – whether it’s a statistic, a compelling story, or a thought-provoking question. Memorise those first few lines so you can deliver them with confidence and eye contact. Once you’re through the beginning, you’ll settle into your rhythm.
5. Breathe, Pause, and Slow Down
Shallow breathing fuels anxiety. Before you step on stage, take a few deep, diaphragmatic breaths to centre yourself. During your talk, remember to pause. Pauses not only give you a moment to collect your thoughts but also add impact to your message. Slowing your pace projects confidence and authority while helping you stay in control of your nerves.
6. Use Your Voice and Body Language with Intention
Your words matter, but how you deliver them matters even more. A well-modulated voice conveys credibility, while variety in pace and tone keeps your audience engaged. Smile, stand tall, and use purposeful gestures. Strong posture and positive body language don’t just look confident – they make you feel more confident.
7. Dress the Part
What you wear impacts how you feel and how others perceive you. Choose an outfit that makes you feel polished and powerful while being comfortable enough to move easily. A touch of colour or a signature accessory can become part of your personal brand on stage. If you are representing a business brand, a branded shirt or polo can convey the message that you are part of a team and reinforce brand messaging.
8. Connect Through Storytelling
Facts and figures inform, but stories move people. Sharing a relevant anecdote or personal experience not only engages your audience but also helps you relax – because you’re speaking from the heart. Authentic stories humanise you and build rapport, dissolving nerves in the process.
9. Anchor Yourself in Gratitude
Before every presentation, I take a moment to be grateful – for the opportunity to share, for the people who have shown up, and for the privilege of being heard. Gratitude shifts your focus away from fear and towards service. It’s a gentle but powerful way to ground yourself.
10. Practice Confidence Daily
Public speaking confidence isn’t built overnight. Like any skill, it improves with practise. Look for opportunities to speak – at work, in community groups, even on video. Each success, no matter how small, builds your belief that you can do it. Remember Emerson’s words: “All the great speakers were bad speakers at first.”
Nerves will never completely disappear. That’s a good thing. They remind you that what you’re doing matters. By preparing well, focusing on your audience, and practising techniques to manage your energy, you can transform nervousness into a compelling presence.
The next time you’re asked to present, step up with excitement, breathe deeply, and remember: your voice has value, and your message deserves to be heard.
Learn more about my personal brand approach when you sign up for my free eBook, The Secret to Your Personal Brand Revolution. Get Your Free eBook Now!
Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
