Social anxiety is a challenge many high achievers face, whether they are small business owners attending networking events or entrepreneurs pitching to potential investors. But fear not, as these strategies can help you manage and conquer social anxiety.<h2 id="fcd04105-8c03-407e-82f7-46dde0c7ecc7" data-toc-id="fcd04105-8c03-407e-82f7-46dde0c7ecc7">1. Make Yourself Big</h2>One common mistake people make before giving a presentation is shrinking their posture by looking down at their phones. Instead, make yourself big. Stand tall, shoulders back, and chin up. This power pose can significantly boost your confidence, making you feel more prepared to face any audience.<div class="iframe-wrapper"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SNv_pDeiBsY?si=9kZBVhhAzT-MdS3i" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div><h2 id="aab293ec-80c8-4d2d-8eac-70b6f19e507c" data-toc-id="aab293ec-80c8-4d2d-8eac-70b6f19e507c">2. Embrace Nervous Energy</h2>It's normal to feel anxious before speaking in public. Mark Twain once said, “There are two types of speakers: those who get nervous and those who lie.” Even professional speakers feel the nerves. Transform that nervous energy into excitement. This shift in perspective can propel you forward rather than hold you back.<h2 id="a8fb7517-d2f9-4639-afd4-2686ffd93d57" data-toc-id="a8fb7517-d2f9-4639-afd4-2686ffd93d57">3. Shake Out the Nerves</h2>Before you go on stage or approach a networking event, shake out any excess nervous energy. For example, backstage, you can discreetly shake your hands and legs. This simple physical activity can release tension and help you stay calm.<h2 id="ed2d9827-2847-448e-a50d-8d300ba3ef5b" data-toc-id="ed2d9827-2847-448e-a50d-8d300ba3ef5b">4. Control Your Breathing</h2>Nervousness often leads to shallow breathing. Before stepping on stage or engaging in a conversation, practise calming breath exercises. This not only regulates your nervous system but also ensures your voice remains steady and clear.<h2 id="a6d6d74d-b8f2-422e-b72a-81a32e7b2c18" data-toc-id="a6d6d74d-b8f2-422e-b72a-81a32e7b2c18">5. Lower Your Rate of Speech</h2>When nervous, you might tend to speak faster. Deliberately slow down your speech. This makes you appear more confident and allows your audience to absorb your message effectively.<h2 id="18dc576a-e67c-4fe5-b00c-f90ab4bd29aa" data-toc-id="18dc576a-e67c-4fe5-b00c-f90ab4bd29aa">6. Rehearse Your Opening Line</h2>One trick to gaining confidence is to nail that first line. Rehearse it multiple times until you can deliver it seamlessly and with confidence. Once you get through the first line successfully, the rest will flow more naturally.<h2 id="692e869b-31fd-4822-8730-b94f44d11a1e" data-toc-id="692e869b-31fd-4822-8730-b94f44d11a1e">7. Connect with Your Audience</h2>Building a connection with your audience can ease anxiety. Make eye contact, share a personal story, or ask a question to engage them. This interaction not only helps you feel more comfortable but also makes your presentation more engaging.Remember, overcoming social anxiety is a journey. By applying these tips, you can turn nervous energy into a driving force that enhances your public speaking skills.<h2 id="8703f1aa-81ab-4de3-9497-fca4ef77c810" data-toc-id="8703f1aa-81ab-4de3-9497-fca4ef77c810">Connect with Me on Social Media</h2>For more tips and insights on public speaking and overcoming social anxiety, follow me on:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="_2lgFZ -FhAI" href="https://www.instagram.com/anthonylayespeaker">Instagram</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="_2lgFZ -FhAI" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonylaye">LinkedIn</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="_2lgFZ -FhAI" href="https://youtube.com/@anthonylaye">YouTube</a></li></ul>Unlock the secret to confidently connecting with anyone! &nbsp;Download my FREE 15-minute training and discover the Break The Ice 3-step formula that will help you start conversations effortlessly in any setting.&nbsp;Whether it’s business, social events, or casual encounters, this powerful formula will change the way you communicate.Ready to break through the fear and make meaningful connections?&nbsp;Click the link to get instant access! 👇<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bit.ly/4dTZZaz">https://bit.ly/4dTZZaz</a><h2 id="6f5cbb3d-b39b-4b35-94cf-c69c67195d8f" data-toc-id="6f5cbb3d-b39b-4b35-94cf-c69c67195d8f">Looking for a Speaker?</h2>Anthony Laye is a keynote speaker, behaviour expert, and coach specialising in communication skills, behaviour profiling, and influence. If you're looking to upskill your staff or need a speaker for your company event, get in touch.

Social anxiety is a challenge many high achievers face, whether they are small business owners attending networking events or entrepreneurs pitching to potential investors.

Beat Social Anxiety: 7 Tips to Boost Your Confidence

Learn how to grow and scale your online course business using our online course platform. EzyCourse blog is designed to teach you how to create and sell online courses.

Beat Social Anxiety: 7 Tips to Boost Your Confidence

Beat Social Anxiety: 7 Tips to Boost Your Confidence

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