Join an 'Authentic Charisma' FREE Webinar and unveil what makes you magnetic and inspiring!
One of the top fears public speakers have is the fear of being judged by the audience. Those rolled eyes, bored sighs, or scrutinizing looks can feel like too much to take, when public speaking is already nerve-wracking.
Whilst it’s terrifying to think of yourself standing in front of a group of people who are mentally channeling their inner powder haired judge, there are tried and tested ways to overcome the fear of being judged when you speak.
First things first, you're probable doing something right.
It’s normal and healthy to think about the audience’s perception of you and your material. After all empathy, one of Ginger’s Six Qualities of an Inspiring Speaker teaches us to not worry about ourselves but focus on how to customize our speech for the audience. And as presenters, we will be much more successful if we design our presentations to adapt to our audiences’ needs. It’s all about what THEY need.
But when thinking about the audience turns into obsessing about ourselves, we've taken a wrong turn somewhere. Self-obsession actually makes us more nervous and stops us from being able to respond to the needs of the audience.
If you're overly concerned about how you will be judged when you speak here are some tips to remember...
If you switch your focus to a message you deeply believe in, it’s no longer important who feels uncomfortable or negative towards you on the way. Once you find something you believe in – something that goes beyond your desire to be loved – you will become bolder and more fearless than you thought possible. Here, your fear of being judged becomes secondary and as you relax, your audience may even turn from ‘enemy’ to supporter.
Ironically, if you focus on sharing an authentic message that you believe in no matter who thinks what about you, you’ll find that your audience members WILL connect with you. If you’re true to yourself you will attract the right people who can benefit for your message.
And at the end of the day, if someone doesn't like you in the audience, that's their deal not yours. I'd much rather be a speaker who pleases some of the audience and annoys others, than be 'so-so' for everyone.
Wouldn't you?
This showcase of inspiring female speakers is part of Ginger's work with game changing leaders.
Discover More