Introversion isn’t the same as being shy.
With enough preparation and focus, introverts are just as capable of being on stage as their more outgoing counterparts.
Though being in the spotlight isn’t something they enjoy, it’s something they can excel at given the right time.
It can also be draining to talk to a lot of people, so pace is important to keep things running smoothly.
Your confidence will naturally grow as you master your topic.
In addition, these presentation tips for introverts can help you further in your preparation.
Conserve Energy
While extroverts draw energy from social interactions, introverts draw their energy from within.
Pacing is crucial to avoid wasting energy while presenting.
If possible, craft a short speech to avoid running out of strength.
A shorter presentation also means that you’ll have more energy to expend engaging with your audience.
Prepare your deck thoroughly so you don’t fumble through your speech and lose your precious energy reserves.
Potential Power
Introverts are good listeners, but they can be good speakers as well.
Here are more reasons why introverts can be excellent public speakers too.
Overstimulation of their senses may cause them to withdraw in social situations.
Thankfully, speeches aren’t completely spontaneous and are conducted in an organized space.
Introverts can devote their time and energy to ensure an outstanding presentation, rather than rely on their personality to wow audiences.
Allocate Time
Use your strengths to conquer your weaknesses and you‘ll be a better presenter with practice.
Devote some time to figure out how you can improve the way you speak and how you structure your topic.
The focus should be on the message you’re trying to convey and not on you.
This kind of mindset takes pressure off of you, which allows you to focus on your content and delivery.
Pretending to be confident will work to your disadvantage because you’ll have to spend more energy trying to sustain this behavior.
Your energy is better spent elsewhere, and the time you spend working on your strengths will give you more room for growth.
Energy = Power x Time
Proper pacing should make delivering a speech look a lot less frightening.
Even if they feel up for to the task, introverts have the right skills to be in front of a crowd.
But they have a limited amount of energy to spend and need to manage it carefully.
Impress your audience through a message with a strong impact to alleviate the pressure to over-deliver.
Some presentation tips suggest faking confidence, but it’s much better to spend time building up your strengths.
With this, you’ll be true to yourself and the message you’re trying to get across through your deck.
Remember: introversion should never be an excuse for a subpar performance.
References
Cain, Susan. “Public Speaking for Introverts: 6 Essential Tips.” Duarte. February 1, 2013. Accessed October 23, 2015. www.duarte.com/blog/public-speaking-for-introverts-6-essential-tips
Cherry, Kendra. “What Is Introversion?” About.com. Accessed October 23, 2015. http://psychology.about.com/od/trait-theories-personality/f/introversion.htm
Featured Image: “Shy statue.” by fredrik Andreasson on flickr.com
