I'm very excited to be presenting a workshop at RWA's National conference in Washington DC next week. And shaky-scared.
Like many writers, I'm a shy person, more comfortable with imaginary people than real ones. And it has little to do with being able to control everyone, as some might suspect. LOL Frankly, I'm much smarter, wittier, and more articulate if I get a "do-over."
What has this to do with public speaking, you ask? Well, it's "public speaking," one of the top fears of 90% of the population. Add in that the workshop will be recorded and you can start to understand my apprehension.
Fortunately, I'm presenting with a really good friend, Kimberly Killion (www.kimberlykillion.com), whose historical, HER ONE DESIRE, is nominated for a RITA award. Not standing there alone is good. Our topic is "The Road So Far: The First Year After the Call," so I'm knowledgeable on the topic, which helps, too.
Does any of this erase my fear? No way. But it eases it some. Kim and I presented the talk to our local RWA chapter and were well-received. This will be the third time we've done the talk, and it gets better, more detailed, and more fun every time.
Not that I'm encouraging anyone to attend! LOL
Do you also fear public speaking? Does anyone have some tips to help me through this?
Megan Kelly
megankellybooks.com
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
12 comments:
I'm like you...shy and more comfortable with my characters than real folks. But I've always gotten through public speaking engagements successfully because of some advice someone once gave me that hit home. When I had to give a doctoral thesis to an auditorium of experienced doctors and researchers, this was the advice I got and I've lived by it since.
First of all relax...at least on the outside. A nervous face won't engage the audience like a smile will. Have fun and the audience will.
Secondly, never lie or try to fudge your way. If someone asks a question you don't know the answer to, just say so. Tell them you'd be happy to find out and get back to them.
Lastly and most importantly, remember that YOU are the expert. You're the one who has prepared the talk backwards and forwards. No matter who's in the audience, you are the expert at the talk you're giving. Knowing that will boost your confidence and erase most of your nerves.
I'll be at RWA for the first time. I'm excited but nervous. I keep telling myself that I won't be the only newbie there. Any advice on how to not get nervous about that?
Public speaking terrifies me!
Megan- Maybe you should sign up with Toastmasters. I used to be scared of speaking in public, too, and Toastmasters was a huge help. One thing to keep in mind is that everyone listening to you wants you do do well. They're all pulling for you, and maybe if you remember that...
Good luck!
Thank you for your advice. So, I just relax, huh? lol I like the part about having fun, since I'm presenting with Kim and we have a riot together.
As for your attending, just know you're going to be around the most generous group of women (and some men) ever. Everyone there has the same interest, writing, so you have a topic in common to discuss. Find me for a moment of non-stress. Also, if you'd like to email me, we can set up a time to meet on purpose so you'll know a friendly face. megankellybooks@att.net You can find others of us at the literacy signing Wed night to say hi. Mostly, just relax and try to absorb the experience.
Estella, it's nice to know I'm in good company. thanks
Ann, RIGHT. It's so easy to forget everyone would be secretly hoping I'd do well, even strangers. I'll try to keep your advice in mind. Thanks.
Megan,
I'm sure you'll do fine. The most important part of a great presentation is to love and know your subject. What author doesn't like to share how they broke in and your audience is interested in the subject as well. I'm sure you'll wish your time was longer.
Lynn
Lynn, Thanks for the encouraging words. I DO like to help educate others, the same way I've been learning all these years from those who published before me. That's a good thought to settle me: I'm giving back. :)
Megan, maybe a friendly face in the audience will help, too. I've marked your workshop on my Nationals schedule.
Thanks, Leigh. Encouraging attendance was SO not my intention, but it will be nice to have you there, knowing you're rooting for me. :)
Thanks a lot good luck to you....i have been looking for this...
___________________
Robert
The best price for the best Entertainment
Robert, You're welcome and thank you for the good wishes. Breathing deeply...
Post a Comment