Ways to look more confident during a presentation
1. Prepare your presentation: Prepare your presentation in advance, and ask the meeting organizer for the time limit. Start by writing your most important points first. Edit out the least important information until you have a detailed but concise presentation.
2. Create a strong opening: Develop a strong opening to get your audience’s attention immediately and make a good first impression. Consider opening with a personal story, startling statistic or a funny quotation or joke. Rehearse your opening statement several times.
3. Practice: Practice your presentation multiple times. This will help you know what you’re going to say, which may help you feel more relaxed and able to engage with the audience. Consider rehearsing in front of the mirror, or try giving your presentation to a small group of family and friends and asking for their feedback.
4. Visualize success: Visualize yourself as a successful public speaker. Practice relaxation techniques. Consider practicing positive affirmations or deep breathing techniques.
5. Get plenty of sleep: Allow yourself plenty of time to relax and rest the night before your presentation. Try to get enough sleep. This may help you feel refreshed.
6. Check the meeting space and equipment: Visit the meeting space before you you present. Become familiar with the environment and equipment. Check the microphone, lighting, electronics and seating arrangement.
7. Do light exercises: Prepare for your presentation with some light exercises or some relaxation techniques. Consider stretching, going for a brief walk or bending your knees. This can help oxygen reach your brain, which helps reduce tension.
8. Practice power poses: One option is to practice power poses before presenting to improve your confidence. Take an open stance, and stretch your arms and legs away from your body. This may help your mind feel more confident, helping you process the challenge of public speaking as an opportunity rather than a threat.
9. Take deep breaths: Take deep breaths before beginning your presentation. Deep inhalations help get more oxygen to your lungs and brain. This can help relax anxiety or feelings of tension in the muscles in your chest and throat.
10. Use the restroom: Each person experiences nerves differently. Allow time in your schedule to use the restroom. This may be one less thing to worry about during your presentation.