Talk: How to Begin Teaching Presentation Skills in Schools to Reduce Fear

Thrilled to be speaking at the special 10th conference of the Belgian English Language Teachers Association (BELTA) on Saturday, 22 April 2023. BELTA was created to support English language teachers, especially in schools and universities, as they seek to improve and enhance their teaching.

My talk is based on my experience of helping professionals, mainly at the executive level, present more effectively and make a bigger impact.

Sadly, many of my clients suffer from real fear when speaking in front of an audience. And they tell me this fear began when they were at school, and it has held them back from sharing their expertise and great ideas for years. Scientists, engineers, lawyers, etc, many with PhDs, and incredible work to share. They detest the spotlight and are often introverts. Unfortunately, few have received help and the tools needed to share their gifts with confidence.

So my talk is going to explore how English language teachers can start to prepare our youth of today to embrace this essential soft skill, this powerful skill.

First, we'll look at PSA (Public speaking anxiety). And then my powerful AI app by Yoodli for judgment-free, real-time feedback with AI analytics and generative advice. Thank you, Varun Puri and Esha Joshi.

Next, I'll share my suggestions for a step-by-step approach to reduce the stress levels of students and even have a bit of fun.
And finally, we'll discover the first vocal technique I work on with my clients. Why? How? And when to Pause? Not only to be engaging but also to help calm the speaker’s nerves and convey confidence. With, of course, an activity to implement immediately in school classrooms.

As you can probably tell, this subject is close to my heart!

Together we need to empower our youth to raise their voices more confidently.

Did you suffer from this fear at school?
Does your child/your children?
How do you feel right now when you have to speak up in front of an audience in English?

If you would like to discuss how to decrease feelings of fear and anxiety when public speaking for your organisation or any other Presentation communication needs, I offer free 30-minute consultations through the contact page of my site. I’d love to meet you.