Check our latest presenter showreel from the team at The Presenter Studio...

This was for psychotherapistSophie Scottwho first came on the 1 day How to Make it as a Presenter workshop (next date is June 25th).

And then did the 1 to 1 with us where we shot the footage for her showreel.

We think it's amazing.

See what you think!

Huge congrats and thanks Sophie!

The future is bright...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCeJiBf5kxI&feature=youtu.be

Public speaking can feel like stepping into a spotlight with your heart racing and palms sweating. The fear of stumbling over words or facing a judgmental audience is enough to make anyone nervous. However, with the right strategies, you can manage those nerves and deliver a speech with confidence. This guide explores practical ways to prepare, reframe your mindset, and connect with your audience to transform public speaking from a source of dread into an opportunity to shine.

Prepare to build confidence

Knowing your material inside and out is the foundation of a calm and confident delivery. Start by researching your topic deeply so you’re ready for questions or unexpected turns in the discussion. Create a clear structure for your speech, with an introduction that grabs attention, key points that flow logically, and a conclusion that leaves an impact. Practice your speech aloud multiple times, ideally in front of a mirror or a trusted friend, to refine your pacing and delivery. Recording yourself can also reveal habits like filler words or awkward gestures, allowing you to polish your performance before the big moment.

Reframe your mind

Nervousness often comes from how you view public speaking, but you can shift your perspective to see it as an opportunity rather than a threat. Instead of imagining a critical audience, picture yourself sharing ideas with friends in a casual conversation. Accept that perfection isn’t the goal, audiences value authenticity over a flawless performance. To build mental resilience, visualize yourself delivering a confident, engaging talk, with the audience smiling and nodding along. This simple mental exercise can rewire your brain to approach the stage with excitement rather than fear.

Use breathing techniques

Physical symptoms like a racing heart or a shaky voice can make nerves feel overwhelming, but controlled breathing can bring your body back to a state of calm. Practice diaphragmatic breathing by inhaling deeply through your nose for four seconds, holding for four, and exhaling slowly for six. Right before your speech, take a moment to do a few rounds of this breathing exercise to center yourself. If nerves spike during your talk, pause briefly to breathe and regroup, it looks natural to the audience and helps you regain control. Slow, intentional breathing signals your brain to relax, reducing the fight-or-flight response that fuels anxiety.

Connect with your audience 

Feeling disconnected from the audience can heighten anxiety, but building rapport creates a sense of collaboration. Make eye contact with individuals for a few seconds to foster a personal connection. A warm smile or a quick question, like asking the audience to raise their hands if they relate to your topic, draws them in and breaks the ice. Pay attention to the audience’s reactions, such as nods or smiles, and adjust your tone or pace to keep them engaged. Starting your speech with a relatable anecdote or question can humanize you and make the experience feel like a shared journey rather than a solo performance.

Start off small 

If public speaking feels like an insurmountable challenge, take it one step at a time to build confidence gradually. Consider joining a group like Toastmasters, where you can practice in a supportive, low-stakes environment. Share your ideas in smaller settings, like team meetings or casual gatherings, to get comfortable speaking up. Each successful talk, no matter how small, reinforces your ability to handle larger stages. After every speech, reflect on one thing you did well to cement positive habits and track your progress. If you need a hand, our Public Speaking Courses could help.

Turn nervous energy into enthusiasm 

Nervousness isn’t always a bad thing, it’s energy you can channel into a dynamic delivery. Use natural hand gestures to add emphasis and release pent-up adrenaline. If the setting allows, move purposefully across the stage to engage the audience and burn off excess energy. Focus on your passion for the topic, letting your excitement shine through to overshadow any lingering nerves. Studies show that reframing anxiety as excitement can improve performance in high-pressure situations, so embrace that energy as fuel for an engaging talk.

Improve with every speech 

Every speech is a chance to grow, and feedback is your tool for improvement. Ask trusted peers for specific input on aspects like clarity, pacing, or audience engagement. If possible, review recordings of your speeches to spot habits and track how far you’ve come. The more you speak, the more comfortable you’ll become, as public speaking is a skill honed through experience, not an innate talent. After each talk, ask a colleague or friend what resonated with them to gain insights that shape your next performance.

Believe in yourself

Overcoming nerves in public speaking comes down to preparation, a positive mindset, and consistent practice. By mastering your material, connecting with your audience, and channeling nervous energy into enthusiasm, you can turn fear into confidence. Start with small steps, embrace the learning process, and remember that every great speaker was once a nervous beginner. With time and effort, you’ll find yourself stepping into the spotlight not with dread, but with excitement to share your voice.

Do you and your team at work do presentations, social media content, panels etc?...

We formed The Presenter Studio 11 years ago to help businesses find their own voice, develop their own style - to ditch the 'corporate' and find the 'personal'.

It's surprising how far behind businesses are when it comes to communications. Presentations are lacklustre. Social media content doesn't reflect the brand. And it's anything but creative.

At The Presenter Studio we are all about helping you and your business shine. Helping you stand out. Helping you maximise your potential and find your own voice. And we love it! We've worked with everyone from NIKE, to Prudential, to ASOS to The Ministry of Defence!

Drop me a message if you want to find out more about how we can help you and your business and your team. And also check out the website: https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training

Why Every Professional Should Take a Presentation Skills Course

Strong presentation skills are no longer a nice-to-have—they're essential in today's competitive job market. Whether you’re pitching to clients, delivering team updates, or leading a workshop, the ability to present clearly and confidently can set you apart.

A presentation skills course gives you the tools to speak with authority and authenticity. You’ll learn how to build persuasive arguments, craft stories that connect with your audience, and deliver your message with confidence.

More than that, it builds your presence. Great presenters are memorable because they’re not just speaking—they’re performing. In our presentation skills courses, we teach you how to own the room, read the audience, and make a lasting impression.

Public speaking is also one of the top fears people have. But like any skill, it improves with the right guidance and practice. A good course provides a safe space to overcome anxiety and develop new strengths.

If you're aiming for career progression, leadership roles, or simply want to boost your communication skills, investing in a presentation skills course is one of the smartest professional moves you can make.

To find out more about how we can help you visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

5 Essential Skills You’ll Learn in a Presentation Skills Course

Enrolling in a presentation skills course can be a transformative experience. Whether you’re a business leader, manager, or new graduate, mastering these core skills will elevate your ability to communicate effectively.

One of the first skills you'll develop is structuring your presentation. You’ll learn how to open strong, deliver key messages with clarity, and end with a powerful conclusion that resonates with your audience.

Next, delivery techniques are key. A good course will train you in how to use your voice, gestures, and facial expressions to enhance your message. These techniques are what transform a dull talk into a memorable performance.

You'll also build confidence in managing nerves. Through guided practice and feedback, you'll learn techniques such as breath control and visualisation to stay calm under pressure.

A presentation skills course also teaches how to engage an audience. This includes the use of storytelling, rhetorical questions, and audience interaction to maintain attention.

Finally, you’ll gain the ability to adapt. From boardrooms to conferences, you'll learn how to tailor your delivery to suit different settings and audiences.

Each of these skills is covered in-depth in our presentation skills courses, ensuring you're ready for any speaking challenge.

To find out more about how we can help you visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

How to Choose the Right Presentation Skills Course for Your Needs

Finding the right presentation skills course can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available online and in-person. Whether you're looking to overcome your fear of public speaking or want to polish your delivery for professional settings, choosing the right course is key to your development.

First, consider your goals. Are you preparing for business presentations, keynote speeches, or client pitches? Look for a course that specifically mentions training for those situations. For instance, our presentation skills courses are tailored to real-world professional scenarios, which means you'll learn practical skills that you can apply immediately.

Another factor is the teaching style. A good course blends theory with plenty of practice. You should expect coaching on structure, storytelling, body language, and vocal delivery. The best courses provide personalised feedback, which is crucial for improvement.

Also, check who delivers the course. Are the trainers industry professionals? Our coaches come from a media background, offering insider insight into how to present with impact and authenticity.

Finally, reviews and testimonials can tell you a lot. Look for courses that are consistently praised for building confidence, clarity, and communication skills.

By identifying your goals and choosing a well-reviewed, professionally-led course with practical experience, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more confident speaker.

To find out more about how we can help you visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Public speaking is more than just a skill—it's a doorway to personal and professional growth. Whether you're leading meetings, presenting ideas, or speaking at events, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently can elevate your career and build your credibility.

Many people struggle with public speaking due to fear or lack of experience. That’s why a structured course can make all the difference. At Presenter Studio, we create a safe and supportive space where you can build your confidence, practice your skills, and receive personalised feedback from experienced coaches.

Our courses are built around real-world speaking scenarios. You'll learn how to craft persuasive messages, engage audiences, and manage nerves. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all teaching—instead, we tailor our coaching to each individual’s style and goals.

Confidence comes from experience and preparation. We guide you through practical exercises that help you understand your strengths and improve on your weak spots. From learning how to project your voice to developing your own speaking style, our courses cover all the essentials.

One of the unique aspects of our approach is our media background. Our training blends the performance skills of broadcasters with the authenticity needed for live audiences. This gives you an edge, whether you're speaking at work, at conferences, or on camera.

Explore how our public speaking courses can help you communicate with impact and confidence in any setting.

To find out more about how we can help you visit www.presenterstudio.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Navigating the media landscape can be intimidating, but with the right tools and mindset, you can handle interviews and public appearances with confidence and control. Whether you're preparing for a television interview, podcast appearance, or live panel discussion, the principles of good media communication remain the same.

At Presenter Studio, we help individuals and organisations build the skills needed to manage media interactions effectively. One of the most important aspects of media training is message preparation. Know what you want to say, and say it clearly. Focus on three key points you want your audience to remember and repeat them when possible.

Equally crucial is learning how to stay composed under pressure. Journalists may challenge you or ask difficult questions. Staying calm, redirecting with grace, and sticking to your message is key. Practice helps tremendously here—the more familiar you are with answering questions, the more natural it becomes.

Media training also involves learning how to use soundbites effectively. These are short, impactful statements that are easy for the media to use and easy for audiences to remember. Crafting a few solid soundbites in advance can give you confidence and make your message stick.

Presentation also matters. Body language, tone of voice, and appearance all influence how your message is received. Good media training includes coaching on posture, eye contact, and speaking style to ensure you come across as confident and credible.

If you're preparing for media appearances or want to improve your media presence, our expert-led media training programs provide the skills and feedback you need to

succeed.

To find out more about how we can help you visit www.presenterstudio.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Public speaking can be one of the most daunting challenges in a professional setting, but it’s also one of the most rewarding skills you can develop. Whether you're addressing a boardroom, pitching a client, or delivering a keynote, your ability to present with confidence can define how your message is received.

At Presenter Studio, we believe that everyone has the potential to be a compelling speaker. The key lies in preparation, practice, and understanding how to connect with your audience.

The first step in mastering presentation skills is structure. A clear and logical structure helps your audience follow your message and increases your own confidence.

Begin with a strong opening to grab attention, follow with well-organized points, and end with a memorable conclusion.

Equally important is how you deliver your message. Your voice, body language, and eye contact all contribute to how your audience perceives you. Practicing vocal variety, maintaining an open posture, and making genuine eye contact can help you come across as more confident and engaging.

Storytelling is another powerful tool. Stories create emotional connections, making your message more relatable and memorable. Think about moments from your own experiences that support your message, and practice telling them naturally.

Finally, dealing with nerves is a big part of becoming a strong presenter. It’s normal to feel anxious, but preparation and practice go a long way. Breathing techniques, visualisation, and rehearsing with trusted colleagues or friends can help ease anxiety.

To take your skills further, our tailored presentation skills courses offer professional coaching designed to help you excel in any speaking scenario.

To find out more about how we can help you visit www.presenterstudio.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

When most people start working on a presentation, they jump straight into the slides. They open PowerPoint or Keynote, and begin adding content, hoping that somehow it will all come together. But this approach skips the most important step — understanding the shape and flow of what you want to say.

At The Presenter Studio, we always start with a running order. It’s a simple but powerful tool that outlines the structure of your presentation — not the details, but the journey. It gives you clarity on what comes where, how your ideas connect, and what kind of experience you’re creating for your audience.

Think of it like planning a story. You wouldn’t just start writing random chapters without knowing how the plot unfolds. In the same way, you need to plan the narrative of your presentation. What’s your opening hook? When does the key message land? Where do you build momentum, and where do you give your audience a moment to reflect?

Having a running order gives you control. It helps you avoid repetition. It stops you from getting lost in tangents. And it allows you to be more strategic about when to introduce supporting visuals, when to pause for impact, and when to bring things to a close.

A good running order also takes the pressure off your slides. Because when the structure is strong, the content is easier to shape. You’re not just reacting to what’s on the screen — you’re leading the message.

In our Public Speaking Course, we walk you through how to create a strong, flexible running order that works for your style and purpose. Whether you’re giving a keynote, a pitch, or an internal update, having a clear shape to your message changes everything.

If you want to move from scattered ideas to a presentation with real flow and confidence, explore our presentation skills training courses and see how we can help - https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training