Here's how you can conquer your fear of public speaking in your career using assertiveness.

1 Understand Fear

Fear of public speaking, also known as glossophobia , often stems from a lack of confidence and the fear of judgment. To conquer this, start by acknowledging your fear as a common experience that you can overcome. Understanding the root of your anxiety allows you to address it directly. Assertiveness in this context means giving yourself permission to be nervous while also affirming your right to speak up. Remember, your ideas are valuable and deserve to be heard. By accepting your fear, you can begin to move past it and develop a more confident speaking demeanor.

2 Build Skills

Developing your public speaking skills is an ongoing process that benefits greatly from assertiveness. Engage in activities like joining a speaking club or practicing with colleagues to hone your abilities. Assertively seek feedback, not as criticism, but as a valuable tool for growth. By actively working on your technique, posture, and delivery , you'll gain a sense of mastery that diminishes fear. Assertiveness here means taking charge of your learning journey and recognizing that every opportunity to speak is a step towards improvement.

3 Reframe Thoughts

The way you think about public speaking has a significant impact on your performance. Reframe negative thoughts by asserting positive affirmations . Instead of thinking, "I'm going to fail," assert to yourself, "I am prepared and capable." This shift in mindset is crucial; it's about being assertive with yourself, replacing self-doubt with self-assurance. By changing your internal dialogue, you can reduce anxiety and approach speaking engagements with a more positive and confident attitude.

5 Control Environment

Taking control of your speaking environment can significantly boost your assertiveness. Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the space. Adjust the microphone, check your visuals, and ensure you're comfortable with the setup. By managing these details, you assert control over the situation rather than letting it control you. This proactive approach not only minimizes unexpected issues but also instills a sense of confidence that will be evident in your demeanor as you speak.

6 Engage Audience

Engaging with your audience is a form of assertiveness that can transform your public speaking experience. Make eye contact, ask questions, and encourage participation. This creates a connection that can alleviate the feeling of "us versus them" and make the experience more conversational and less intimidating. Assertiveness in engagement means taking the lead in creating a dynamic interaction, which not only captivates your audience but also reinforces your confidence as a speaker.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?