Tips to Overcome Stage Fright
Willy A Renandya, 8 June 2025
Are you anxious when it comes to speaking in public? If yes, rest assured—you’re not the only one!
Public speaking can be a daunting task for many, whether they are seasoned professionals or just starting out (though beginners often feel it more intensely).
I’ve delivered countless lectures, workshops, and conference talks, and I still get butterflies, especially in the first few minutes. But over time, I’ve discovered several strategies that help me manage my nerves and deliver more confidently.
Here are some of the techniques I use that might also help you calm your nerves and boost your self-assurance before and during your next presentation.
- Start with something familiar. Begin your talk with lines you’ve used before and know well. This helps your speech flow naturally and builds momentum early on. If you struggle to find your words at the beginning, it can shake your confidence and make the rest of your talk feel harder than it needs to be.
- Look for friendly faces. Focus your attention on people in the audience who seem approachable or whom you already know. Their encouraging expressions and smiles can provide a sense of support and reassurance. The rest of the crowd may appear intimidating when you’re nervous, but chances are, they’re just listening intently—not judging.
- Open with a joke—but keep it safe. Humor is a great way to ease tension and connect with your audience. Just make sure it’s a joke you’ve tested before and know lands well. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities; what works in one setting might not work in another. I’ve had both big laughs and awkward silences from jokes—it all depends on context.
- Practice, practice, practice. Rehearse your presentation multiple times in the days leading up to the event, and again shortly before you speak. The goal is to become so familiar with your material that you no longer rely heavily on notes or slides. This allows you to focus on engaging with your audience, adjusting your pace, and responding to their reactions in real time.
- Visualize success. Before your presentation, take a few minutes to mentally walk through your talk going well. Picture yourself speaking clearly, confidently, and connecting with the audience. Visualization is a powerful tool used by athletes and performers—it can help reduce anxiety and build a positive mindset.
- Breathe and pause intentionally. When nerves kick in, your breathing becomes shallow and your speech speeds up. Take deep breaths before you begin and during your talk if needed. Also, don’t be afraid to pause—it gives your audience time to absorb information and gives you a moment to reset.
As you continue to speak in public, you’ll start to notice patterns and personal techniques that suit your style and resonate with different audiences. As the saying goes, experience truly is the best teacher.
I hope these tips help you feel more prepared and confident the next time you’re standing in front of a group—whether it’s for a class presentation, your first lecture, or a major conference talk.
The video below offers additional tips to overcome stage fright.