This week I’m bringing you three ways to set yourself up for success the day of a big speech, presentation or TV appearance. It’s very important that you’re in a good frame of mind before a media or public speaking exposure. You’ve got enough to think about when those bright lights are on you, so you need to do whatever you can to clear your head and take the stage, or the TV studio, relaxed and confident.

The first thing you should do on the day of your performance is exercise. Go for a run, go to yoga, hit the gym, do something physical. It’s a great way to release stress and to get your body working FOR you, and not against you. Plus, don’t you just feel more confident after a workout? I used to do sets of push-ups before I went live on Nickelodeon.

Two: take it easy at work that day. Don’t yell on the phone or hold a tension-filled staff meeting before your media exposure. I know you’re busy but find time to relax at the office. Maybe answer some emails, or organize your calendar. Make it an “office day.” A day just for you.

And three: give yourself a pep talk. It’s not corny, or cheesy, it works. Find somewhere quiet, look into a mirror, and remind yourself that you got this. Trust me, years ago I stumbled upon this technique after a series of very bad auditions left my confidence reeling, and it made a huge difference for me as a TV host. I immediately started auditioning better and started booking some gigs.

As always, if you want to chat about this or any other aspect of communications coaching just contact me!

Have a great day,

Dave