Discuss ways to overcome anxiety when preparing to give a presentation

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: Even seasoned pros get a little nervous before a big presentation—and that is a good thing. Nervousness is an indication that you care about your audience, your topic, and the occasion. These techniques will help you convert anxiety into positive energy:
• Stop worrying about being perfect. Successful speakers focus on making an authentic connection with their listeners, rather than on trying to deliver a note-perfect presentation.
• Know your subject. The more familiar you are with your material, the less panic you'll feel.
• Practice, practice, practice. The more you rehearse, the more confident you will feel.
• Visualize success. Visualize mental images of yourself in front of the audience, feeling confident, prepared, and able to handle any situation that might arise. Remember that your audience wants you to succeed, too.
• Remember to breathe. Tension can lead people to breathe in a rapid and shallow fashion, which can create a lightheaded feeling. Breathe slowly and deeply to maintain a sense of calm and confidence.
• Be ready with your opening line. Have your first sentence memorized so you don't have to improvise your opening.
• Be comfortable. Dress appropriately but as comfortable as possible. Drink plenty of water ahead of time to hydrate your voice (bring a bottle of water with you, too).
• Take a three-second break if you need to. If you sense that you're starting to race, pause and arrange your notes or perform some other small task while taking several deep breaths. Then start again at your normal pace.
• Concentrate on your message and your audience, not on yourself. When you're busy thinking about your subject and observing your audience's response, you tend to forget your fears.
• Maintain eye contact with friendly audience members. Eye contact not only makes you appear sincere, confident, and trustworthy but can give you positive feedback as well.
• Keep going. Things usually get better as you move along, with each successful minute giving you more and more confidence.