It happen to me again! We have a weekly meeting with our customers and I freeze up. My presentation is at the end so I have to wait to give my updates. What is happening is my nerves get to a point where my thoughts and speech go to mush. I believe this is effecting the way my customers react to me. I have joined ToastMasters but my speech coordinator says I am fine. When I talk to him about what is going on he just says it is speech nerves. He believes I will get over it but it seems to be getting worse. What should I do?

DAC

I would try to concentrate on something in the room and stick with that while you talk, that helps me. Also try things like picturing them in their underwear or something crazy like that! Hey they are people just like you, no different or better. Do whatever you feel comfortable while giving the update. Don't talk to them like they are strangers, try to be friendly and make things into a better situation while your up there. Like a relaxed situation. I hope this helps. Oh and don't stick completely to a speech, its OK to paraphrase as long as you get to the point. Sometimes people write speeches that sound like they are trying to be perfect, use everyday words and speak normal. Good luck!