I know many people have a fear of speaking. Yes, it is a real thing. I used to be that way myself. I remember the first time I did a presentation in front of a professional group.
The CPA firm I was working for in Orlando was putting on their own CPE event for mostly clients. They asked me to do a tax presentation. I did not think much of it as I prepared the presentation. But the day of the event i was scared, well, crapless. I was so nervous. I had huge knots and butterflies and any other cliche about that in my stomach.
That was the year that the TV game show with John McEnroe came out called “The Chair“. The contestant sat in this big chair and they were supposed to answer some rapid fire trivia questions. If they did not answer in a set amount of time, something bad would happen and they would lose.
I told the audience before I started that I felt like that with a funny twist and they laughed. That broke the ice for me and helped me feel more comfortable and I made it through the presentation. Afterwards, many of them were very complimentary to me and told me that I did a great job.
I have since grown to enjoy being in front of the room. In fact, if I could do it every day, that would be my new dream job.
My suggestion to you if you have a fear of speaking, start with webinars (where you can hide behind the computer screen) or do live seminars in front of your clients (a more friendly atmosphere). But the best way to get yourself out there is to get in front of people and speak. You never know who might be in your audience sometimes and it could lead to great things.
The next big speaking gig, that great client you looking for or that high paying job that will help you live more comfortably. If you are looking for some support, feel free to reach out to me.