Public speaking can be intimidating, but projecting confidence is key to engaging your audience.  Even if you're feeling nervous, you can still come across as self-assured by using a few practical techniques. Here's how to look more confident when speaking in front of an audience.

1. Start with Confident Body Language

Your body language is a significant indicator of how confident you feel and appear. Here are some key tips:

• Stand Tall: Good posture immediately signals confidence. Be careful not to slouch and keep your head up

• Avoid Fidgeting: Minimize nervous movements like tapping your feet or shifting weight from side to side. 

• Use Gestures Purposefully: Use open hand gestures that match your speech. Avoid crossing your arms, which can make you seem closed off or defensive.

2. Make Eye Contact

Looking at your audience, rather than over their heads, helps you connect and project authority. Here’s how to do it:

• Engage with Individuals: Choose different people in the room to make eye contact with, rotating through them as you speak.

• Don’t Stare Too Long: A brief, friendly glance is enough to make a connection. Don’t linger on any one person for too long, as this can become awkward.

3. Control Your Breathing

Before you speak- calm, deep breathing helps you stay composed and appear confident. Shallow, fast breathing will make you seem anxious.

• Don't forget to pause for breath while speaking. If you feel yourself speeding through your speech, pause to take a slow breath. It also gives your audience time to digest your words.

4. Speak Clearly and with Purpose

Confident speakers use their voice as a tool to command attention. Speak clearly, and not too fast or too slow. Speak at a steady pace/

• Use the Tone of Your Voice for Impact: Vary your tone to emphasize key points of your speech.

• Avoid Filler Words: Words like "um," "uh," or "like" can undermine your message. If you need a moment to think, just take a breath and pause silently.

• Project Your Voice: Speak loudly enough to be heard by everyone in the room, but not so loudly that it feels forced. Let your voice carry confidence by maintaining a strong, resonant sound.

5. Dress for Confidence

What you wear can affect how confident you feel and appear. Wear something that you know looks great on you, with fabric that is not too stiff.

• Choose Outfits that Fit Well: Clothes that fit properly and make you feel good can boost your confidence.

• Consider Your Audience: Dress appropriately for the occasion. If you're speaking in a professional setting, choose polished attire. In a more casual environment, dress neatly without being overly formal.

6. Prepare and Practice, Practice, Practice

Preparation is key to feeling and appearing confident. 

• Practice out loud: Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or ask a friend for feedback. The more familiar you are with your material, the less nervous you'll feel.

• Visualize Success: Imagine yourself speaking confidently and being well-received by your audience. Visualization can have a powerful effect on your performance.

7. Start Strong and Finish Stronger

First impressions matter. Start your speech with a strong message, and make your ending impactful.

• Begin with a Strong Opener: A compelling fact, a bold statement, or a question can capture attention right away.

• End with a Powerful Conclusion: Leave your audience with a clear takeaway or call to action, making sure your final words are strong and memorable.

By practicing and implementing these strategies, you can appear calm, composed, and confident, even when you're feeling nervous.

I can help you become a more confident public speaker. Let’s talk.