Public speaking is often rated as among the top five fears of most people. For some, this even outranks death. Because public speaking is so frightful to so many, advance preparation is key. Keep reading and learn how you can conquer the fear of speaking in public.

Try using a timer to time the length of your speech. You can then edit your speech so it does not extend past the time allowed. If it is short, get more information through research to fill your time slot. Finally, never rush during a speech.

You can’t speak before an audience and think that others will automatically know what you’re saying. You have to put in an effort to keep the audience interested in what you’re saying. You are performing in a way, and this requires effort on your part.

Make sure you know your material completely. While memorizing your speech is important, it’s just as important to know other facts and figures or even stories and jokes as they relate to your subject matter You can work these things into your speech to add time, engage the audience, and make yourself sound like a real professional. You can use them to answer questions too.

Use a timer to know how long your written speech is. This allows you to edit the speech if necessary to keep it at the right length. If your speech is too short, research and find more information to fill in the time. The final tip is to avoid rushing through your speech.

Always make sure to look at your audience. Don’t allow anything to distract you, no matter what may be going on around the room or auditorium. Since you are attempting to convince the audience with your words, they should command your complete attention.

Memorize your speech before you do anything. Once you are able to give your speech without looking at your notes, you can start to perfect your delivery. Having your speech memorized in advance also gives you a chance to ad lib comfortably on the stage.

Make sure that you know your audience. If you can, learn who the individuals are who are expected to attend. If possible, greet the audience members individually as they come in. Feeling comfortable and familiar with some individuals in the audience makes the process much friendlier.

Being prepared is key to making good public speaking impressions. Get everything you want to share in your speech down well. To support a particular fact, research it thoroughly before stating it. Write down anything you need to include. Rehearse your comments until you master them. Being prepared will boost your confidence while delivering your speech.

Telling the audience a true story is a great way to become good at public speaking. Make sure to outline your speech. You need to include a beginning, a middle portion and a definite end to the story you tell. Be sure the story is true so your words appear natural and authentic.

Know as much as you can about your material. While memorizing your speech is important, it’s just as important to know other facts and figures or even stories and jokes as they relate to your subject matter Work them in where you think they fit and will engage your current audience. This can also reinforce your speech when answering questions or providing follow up conversations.

If you inadvertently skipped a sentence, keep going. If you stop and backtrack and try to correct your error, you will end up with a big mess. Also, people probably won’t even notice that you omitted something.

Many people are more scared to speak in public than they are of dying. But, it’s important to not make the choice to let the fear take control over your confidence. Use the information presented here to help you master the art of public speaking.

Deep breathing can really help to calm your fears before a public speaking engagement. Deep breathing can be tremendously helpful at controlling nerves. Breathe through your nose and count to four, then exhale counting to five. Repeat this until you feel your breathing and heart rate calm down.