“Just imagine everyone in the audience is sitting in their underpants.”
We’ve all heard it – that first piece of public speaking advice we got as kids, right before walking out onto a scary, larger-than-life stage in front of an auditorium of strangers for an elementary talent show or recitation contest that our parents forced us to do.
But did it work? Chances are, it didn’t, and for many of us, the fear of presenting in front of crowds is still alive and well. In fact, according to research, glossophobia (aka, the fear of public speaking) affects up to 75 percent of us. Symptoms include trembling, sweating, racing heartbeat and in worst-case scenarios, a complete loss of train of thought. Yep, I’ve been there!
The good news: we’re not alone. Whether you dread public speaking or get sweaty palms thinking about connecting with strangers at an event – lookin’ at you, fellow introverts – I’m sharing a few thoughts based on 25+ years of conquering my fear of professional mingling and public speaking. Though the jitters might not completely disappear, one or two of these reminders may help shift the mindset from dread to comfort just in time for your next event.
The Water Industry Is Awesome
First, chances are if you’re on this blog, you work in the water industry. The water industry is awesome! I’ve found that most people here are down to earth and passionate about water – so you’ll have an instant connection.
1) Be Confident
Be confident in what you do know and genuinely curious about what you don’t. In a peer group, people want to help. If you say you’re new or curious or want to learn, most people will be quick to help you.
2) New Is Good
You may feel nervous because there will be people who are much more seasoned than you – don’t worry about that! In this industry, we are starving for fresh faces…people will be thrilled to welcome you as the face of the future.
3) Leverage Your Connections
After introductions, find a person you feel comfortable with and join in their conversations.
4) Connect on LinkedIn
Connect with attendees on social media first for a soft introduction.
5) Be Yourself
As cliché as it sounds, be yourself. You have enough to think about without also being in character. You may have a lot to learn but you also have a lot to offer. You don’t need to put on a show. Just be who you are where you’re most comfortable…minus the sweatpants and slippers!
6) Dress The Part
Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident (but probably not the sweats/slippers). You don’t need to look like everyone else.
7) Get Personal
Ask people about their families and their jobs. How did they get into water? Learn about them, and listen to their stories. Making a connection always helps the conversation flow naturally.
8) Let It Flow
For public speaking, no need to memorize word-for-word. Jot the bullets, practice a few times and let it flow!
9) Talk About Regulations
When in doubt, you can always talk about regs with this crowd. It will also help you get an understanding of personal values and motivations.
10) Take Initiative
There are plenty of resources at your fingertips – online networking and public speaking courses (LinkedIn Learning, for example, has a complete lineup), influencers on podcasts and social media. In addition to books, my local public library even offers online learning for adults. Maybe yours does, too.
In short? Water people are some of the most welcoming. If you run into a rare exception who isn’t friendly – I haven’t met that person yet myself – it’s probably not about you. And if you do stumble a bit, over your words or your feet – don’t worry. Give yourself 10 minutes to debrief mentally, then move on.
And who knows – maybe those jitters are less about nervousness and more about excited anticipation.