How do you deal with nervousness and anxiety before and during your presentation?

This is great advice. I like to storyboard my thoughts before I put them to visuals and it’s extremely important to understand what you need to communicate and for what audience.

I have always found it really useful to record myself using voice notes and listen back. Sometimes it helps it stick more clearly in my mind or I will notice if I have repeated something of if there is a section that needs amending.

One thing that I've found to be helpful before starting any presentation is to say a little prayer asking God to help me stay calm, not stumble over my words, and to help me be able to answer all questions to the best of my ability. Also, if I find myself rushing during a presentation or if I feel my heart racing, I immediately take a deep breath and slow down. These actions have helped me to manage my nerves and anxiety.

One way I find helpful before starting my presentation is to do deep breathing and to flex my hands, arms and shoulders. I focus on my well prepared and researched topic and enjoy the feeling of anticipation and confidence. I believe in what I am presenting and I think about what a privilege it is to have the opportunity to present. I think of my audience as colleagues and friends, I consciously smile and keep eye contact with people who are willing to connect with me with an encouraging smile back.

To add to Dr. McNealy's perspective on rushing, it's quite common for most people to rush their speaking due to nerves (which causes you to get out of breath furthering the anxiety). One thing I tell myself before and during is 'you can never speak too slow when speaking publicly'. Pauses are actually encouraged to allow your presentation to sink in. Once you speak slowly, your heart rate lowers and you'll find yourself in a relaxed state.

In my experience, if I know I may have a tougher crowd, I like to anticipate questions and make a note of how I’d like to answer. This allows me to be prepared but also confident since I’ve got my notes and I can sound articulate and prepared (vs feeling put on the spot).

I think it’s also really important to understand the practical logistics involved, so you know what to expect and not worry about them. Things like what you’ll wear (tip: dress well, but be comfortable!), standing in the space you’ll be presenting in, understanding the microphone set-up (if there is one), the lighting, having a glass of water to hand, eating light and well in advance (to avoid a rumbling stomach!), planning your route and timing to arrive early enough (if offsite). Thinking these things through in advance can help you avoid external surprises on the day, get you more familiar with how the actual day will run for you and ease a few of those nerves.

I like to speak with each attendee when they arrive on the call. Just saying hello to each person warms me up. Then I stand up and stretch and do my Wonder Woman pose!!! Then I start my presentation.

I like to provide my contact information after presenting and encourage people to call or email me directly with any additional questions or concerns that may come along after the meeting. This additional step shows people that I am here and willing to help.