Public speaking in English

By Adam Borowski

Why do so many people dread public speaking in English? Public speaking in English is the ultimate self-esteem test ― even if you're an excellent English speaker. You feel, as though your insecurities are about to be exposed to the world. This makes you even more nervous. Here's how to psychologically prepare for your presentation.

1. Turn fear into focus

Stress doesn't have to be your nightmarish enemy. Imagine that the stress you're feeling is a hellish demon. Turn the demon into a friend ― giving you the thumbs up. A simple mental trick.

2. You can't change the culture

It's particularly difficult to give a presentation in a Confucian culture. A Korean girl once told me ― it's impossible to grasp the complexity of face culture when you're a foreigner. I'm a foreigner ― and I certainly don't have a magic wand to give me a Korean perspective. What I do know is that cultures are fossilized social constructs. You can't change the culture ― you can only change your reaction to cultural stimuli. Why do you think you're going to lose face if you fail to deliver a great presentation?

3. Don't expect rational reactions to your accent

There are people who will always criticize your accent. If your accent is thick ― you'll be told to make it more native-like. If your accent is flawless ― well, then clearly you must be pretending to be an American. You're hiding your identity. Maybe you're a spy? It's absurd. A Korean speaking English with a native-like accent is probably an assiduous individual. It takes a lot of effort to master a particular accent. Even the most fascinating presentation can be ruined by a thick accent. As perplexing as it is ― you can actually sound rich and authoritative. Accentism is real. Welcome to the real world.

4. Be a linguist

English is the global language. Look at English as it is ― not as you think English ought to be. People think linguists are language purists, while ― in fact ― linguists strive to understand the real-world language processes. Expand your vocabulary as much as you can. Don't just focus on general English. You need a wide vocabulary range to deliver a smooth presentation. Make sure people pay attention to what you say ― not how you say it.

5. Positive thinking is overrated

You're stressed, because ― deep down ― you know all this positive thinking mantra is a lie. Visualize the worst case scenario instead. It's highly unlikely the worst case scenario is going to materialize. Visualizing the worst case scenario is a cathartic experience. Your mind needs clarity and honesty. Confronting your fears makes your mind more focused ― exactly what you need before the presentation.

6. Emphasize key points

Find a smart way to emphasize the key points. What do you want the main message of your presentation to be? The main message is the fundamental part of the presentation.

7. Focus on decision-makers

Hierarchy is crucial. Make sure the decision-makers find your presentation appealing. Who cares if Mr. John Public dislikes your presentation? He isn't influential, so it doesn't matter. You want to impress the CEO.

8. Big words ― big mistake

Nobody cares you know what sesquipedalian means.

Adam Borowski (adam.borowski1985@gmail.com) is a technical Polish-English translator, and a business English teacher.