Public speaking is one of the top three fears that Americans have. (Heights and bugs, snakes, and other creepy animals are also in the top three.) Those other two fears don’t bother me too much, but I can relate to the fear of speaking in public. 

 

The first time I spoke in public was my junior year and the setting was to my entire high school at an assembly. I was so nervous that I almost ghosted the speech. Thankfully, I had some good friends who didn’t let me leave and made me give the speech.

 

It’s been 20 years since I first spoke in public and I’m sure I’ve given well over 100 speeches since then. I still get nervous before going on stage, but over the years I have developed some tips and tools that have helped me become a better public speaker. 

 

You can watch the videos on how I became a better public speaker here:

 

How about you? What are some tips and tools that have helped you develop your public speaking skills? Share in the comments section below, or join the conversation on social media.