Public speaking is one of the most common fears out there — and we get it. That mix of nerves, adrenaline, and the pressure to ‘perform’ can feel overwhelming. But here's the truth: great presenters aren’t born, they’re made. At The Presenter Studio, we’ve coached everyone from CEOs to TV presenters — and we know what works.

If you're looking to improve your presentation skills and finally stop the fear, these five tips are for you.

Chat to a Mate

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to 'present'. They stiffen up, use overly formal language, and lose their personality. Instead, imagine you’re having a chat with a mate. It’s more natural, more relatable, and it helps your audience connect with you.

A great way to practise this is by running through your presentation out loud as if you were explaining it to a friend. Picture someone you trust sitting in the audience and speak directly to them. You’ll sound more human and feel more at ease.

Learn Your Intro

Nerves always peak at the start. That’s when your heart’s racing, palms are sweaty, and your brain is running on overdrive. The best way to beat this is to nail your opening.

If you know your first 60 seconds word for word, you’re giving yourself a strong foundation to build from. It helps settle your nerves and lets you ease into your talk with confidence.

Dress to Impress

You don’t need to wear a tux, but looking good helps you feel good. Clothes aren’t just about style — they’re part of your mindset. When you feel confident in what you’re wearing, it shows.

Choose something that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Keep it comfortable, professional and authentically you. Avoid anything distracting or that makes you self-conscious.

The Power of the Pause

Silence is powerful. A well-timed pause gives your message space to land, lets your audience absorb what you’ve said, and gives you a moment to breathe.

So many people rush through their presentation just to get it over with. Don’t be afraid to stop and let the moment breathe. It shows confidence and keeps your audience engaged.

Avoid Jargon

Trying to sound smart by using big words or industry buzzwords usually backfires. People tune out when they hear unfamiliar language — and the last thing you want is to lose your audience.

Speak simply. Use language that’s clear and easy to understand. Your job is to make your message accessible, not to impress with complexity. If your audience doesn’t get it, they won’t remember it.

Final Thoughts

Improving your presentation skills is a journey — and it starts with shifting your mindset. Remember, presenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being real. Be conversational. Be prepared. Be confident in who you are.

And next time the nerves kick in, just remind yourself: you’ve got this.

For expert coaching and insider secrets from the world of television and business, visit The Presenter Studio’s bespoke training page: https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Let’s turn fear into confidence — one presentation at a time.