What Should Speakers Be Doing Right Before They Go on Stage?

In a physical sense, what are some action ideas to follow in the moments leading up to your presentation so you can bring your “A Game” to the platform when it really counts?

Just Before Your Presentation

• Stretch and jog up and down the hallway or run the stairs. Get rid of excess nervous energy while loosening up your muscles. (Be careful if you are wearing high heels.)
• Drink room-temperature water with lemon to moisten your mouth and throat. Iced water constricts your vocal cords.
• Avoid consuming dairy products beforehand as they can contribute to throat congestion. This surprises some speakers who think yogurt is a good option.
• Eat a light breakfast or lunch, but don’t overdo it. Beware of the breakfast buffet; step away from the triple stack!
• Loosen your vocal cords and get rid of any “frogs” by talking out loud.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. It’s not the time to break in a new pair of dress shoes.
• Take one last look in the mirror.
• Take a deep breath—and go out and meet and greet audience members as they arrive.

 

To customize a keynote or professional development session that will have your audience laughing and learning, contact Mandi Stanley.

Certified Speaking Professional Mandi Stanley works with business leaders who want to boost their professional image by becoming better speakers and writers through interactive high-content keynotes, breakout sessions, workshops, technical writing seminars, and fun proofreading classes. 

Photo by Shelbey Miller on Unsplash