Running for Office: Dealing with Public Speaking Nervousness

Are you thinking about running for local office, but are nervous about public speaking? Changing how you prepare for the speech may ease your nerves. 

1. Stop trying to write the speech. Maybe you’re great at communicating with people, but you aren’t a strong writer. So don’t write it! Especially if you are a beginner. Later on, when you are getting into writing your keynote speech or your State of the Union address, okay, you’ll write it.

What I suggest is to get up and just start talking through it. Make some notes as you go along so you remember what your highlights and bullet points are. But just start speaking it. Make it feel comfortable, natural, and relaxed.  The other thing that not writing the speech does is overcome the memorization problem. Of course you can always bring a notecard or full notes up to a podium, but you won’t always have a podium.

2. Don’t try memorizing, especially early on. If you are giving a speech over and over again, you will memorize it with time.

The more you know about a topic, the more relaxed you are going to be talking about it. It will flow easily. Why are you running? What is the big issue that needs to be dealt with? How does it affect the voter? So, you’re comfortable speaking about a topic in front a few people or in a one-on-one conversation, but how about in front of a whole room?

3. Remind yourself that all public speaking is a one-on-one conversation (because you are looking at someone in the audience when you are giving the speech) where there happen to be other people standing there. Sir Richard Branson says he always approaches a speech as a one-on-one conversation.

How do you get in that mindset? It mostly comes from practice. Give your speech in front of the mirror. Then work up to video taping yourself; and then to getting people in the room to practice in front of. Family or friends are perfect to help practice. It can also be helpful to find rehearsal venues. Toastmasters International is a wonderful place to practice public speaking. Find places to practice in front of people and you will get more comfortable. Repetition is key to feeling more comfortable. Most importantly, remember that nervous energy is very useful. It will give you power and excitement in your speech. Have fun with it! With time and practice, you will be excited to give a speech. John Tsarpalas is a candidate and campaign organization coach. The former Executive Director of the Illinois Republican Party and President of the Sam Adams Alliance hosts a weekly podcast that “Trains Those Who Understand the Benefits of Limited Government to Win Elections” at https://www.commonwealthy.com/.