Remember: research shows that the #1 fear among American adults is speaking in front of a group. The #2 fear is dying. This means that at a funeral, the average person would rather be in the casket than delivering the eulogy.

In other words: remember that you are not the only person in the world is uncomfortable with the idea of speaking in front of a group. But why should you be uncomfortable? No matter how horrible you may feel like you're doing, they would rather listen to you than take your place.

What's the worst thing that could happen? You could forget what you wanted to say? Then have prepared notes, an entire prepared text if necessary. You're not doing Shakespeare -- if you don't say it quite right, nobody will care.

Prepare what you want to say, and practice it in front of a mirror. Watching yourself is a good way to spot any nervous tics so you can keep them under control. The practice will also enable you to make sure you know what you're going to say. Don't be afraid to go over it aloud in the car (folks in other cars won't think you're crazy, they'll assume you're singing along with the radio).

Then when you get up there, make eye contact with a friend or loved one. As you're speaking, move the eyes to another friend. Soon, you'll find that you're moving your attention around the room so that everybody feels like you're talking to them. If you want to look a direction, but there is no friendly face to connect with, pick a person in the back row and look at the top of their head.

There is a very fine line between the thrill of excitement and the dread of fear. Make sure you know what you want to say, and you can push that feeling in your stomach over to the thrill side. Accept graciously the compliments you recieve after you're done, and soon you'll be where I am --- looking for my next chance to speak to a group.

Don't imagine them all naked that could make it even more scary! [img]tongue.gif[/img]

I am taking a Public Speaking Class starting next week. I really wished I would've had that before I ever had to do the PTO stuff.

Just remember they are all parents too. They are not there to judge you. You are there for the same reasons. Take deep breaths and focus on what you need to be talking about and not how many people are there. If you have someone close to you that you are used to, make eye contact with them.

I am sure you will get a lot of help on this site, but always remember to breathe when you up there.

I am the new president this year for our HSA. I am handling everything pretty well, but I will soon have to speak to about 100 new parents and then to all of the parents (about 500). I am really getting nervous! I have never done this before! Any advice would be greatly appreciated. :eek: