Explain the typical reasons for speech anxiety and discuss the strategies for overcoming anxiety. What is an advantage of nervousness for speakers? Explain why the techniques for reducing speech anxiety are likely to be effective.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

- Reasons: the speaker sees his or her ideas as important; the speaker values listeners' judgment; the speaker wants to make a good impression; the speaker worries about making mistakes
- Although a speaker may be nervous about making a mistake while speaking, nervousness may actually be an advantage; it can bring some people to a higher state of readiness and confidence.
- Anxiety reduction strategies: A speaker should (1) acknowledge fears and recognize that he or she can overcome them; (2) concentrate on what to say and the effect he or she wants it to have on listeners; (3) act confident, even if he or she feels apprehensive; (4) visualize what it will be like to be a successful speaker; (5) prepare a strong introduction; and (6) end the speech on a strong note and pause before returning to his or her seat.
- These steps can help a speaker properly channel nervous energy and put that speaker in a position to do well.