5 public speaking tricks from Eminem

Palms are sweaty. Knees weak/arms are heavy. There’s vomit on his sweater already. Mom’s spaghetti.

Have you ever felt this way before a big presentation?

I almost exclusively feel this way before I need to speak in front of an audience, but through years of practice, I’ve learned to cope with glossophobia (the fear of public speaking).

There are few people fully comfortable and confident with public speaking. Most would rate it as their worst fear.

Inevitably, the time will come when you will be asked to speak in front of a crowd—and you’ll have the choice of running or facing it.

These simple tricks—inspired by Eminem’s masterful performances as well as his infamous missteps—can lessen your anxiety and take the stress out of presenting:

1. Practice makes perfect.

Practicing your lines, hand gestures and walking patterns is perhaps the most crucial thing you can do to prepare for giving a speech.

Practicing in front of a mirror is a great way to discourage looking at your notes, and it allows you to get confortable making a connection with the person in front of you.