For many candidates, speaking to a crowd comes natural. For others, not so much.
But don’t think you’re alone or can’t overcome it. Consider this eye-opening revelation about “performance anxiety” by some of the biggest legends in entertainment from marketing legend Dan Kennedy…
“When the Beatles broke up and went out on their own, anxiety was the order of the day.
“When John Lennon premiered at the Toronto Rock ‘n Roll Revival in 1969, with his hastily organized Plastic Ono Band, he vomited before going onstage. Although he’d been on stages for thousands of hours, he’d always been sheltered by being one of the Beatles.
“George Harrison was even more nervous, telling Bob Dylan that he had never been ‘out front’ with the Beatles, and that the few steps toward the microphone at center stage was going to be a ‘very difficult journey.’
“Johnny Carson was often a nervous wreck backstage, waiting for the music cue and curtains parting, to then stroll out, seeming as relaxed as could be. I personally witnessed Johnny Cash freeze up at the prospect of going out onto the Success stage and speaking.”
So you’re in good company!
The most important thing to remember – as per the old Dry Idea commercial – is to never let them see you sweat.
NEVER open your remarks by saying, “I’m not very good at public speaking.” That sets a bad tone right out of the gate. If you don’t tell them, most will never know.
Just relax and screw up the courage to give it your best and let the chips fall where they may.
If you’re new to public speaking, start off speaking to small groups, such as neighborhood house parties. Get your sea legs. Become more comfortable. And then move up to bigger and bigger audiences.
Last piece of advice: Just be yourself. NOBODY can be a better you than you.
Now go break a leg!
Dr. Chuck Muth, PsD
Professor of Psephology (homeschooled)