Good artcile, Deb. You have some very helpful tips in there.
I overcame my fear of public speaking by accident. I was at a seminar workshop for our classified staff of a college and we were going to surprise the outgoing president by honoring her with a speech and a gift. The gift was bought by donations from all the members and was ready to give. Only one problem, the woman who was to give the speech forgot to write something up. Since I was the rep that put out the monthly newsletter, the committee asked me to give a little speech in honor of the out-going president. I was terrified! I had nothing prepared, but knew the woman well, took several deep breaths, walked up on the stage and gave a speech that included all the accomplishments and improvements made and the background of the woman - and this was done in front of over 100 people! The woman was very surprised and honored and received a standing ovation. The only problem was that my co-committee people thought I did so well that they volunteered me often to give other speeches.
Since then, I have had no problems speaking in front of groups.
Last edited by Phyllis, Native American; 11/30/09 02:54 PM.