A component of owning a memorial foundation is being asked to speak for events, press conferences and in meetings. When you first lose a loved one that may not be something you feel comfortable doing just yet. You may be okay with speaking one on one but public speaking is most people’s number one fear.

The best way to get over that fear is through practice. I’ve listed 5 of my tips below on public speaking. Read through this list and then continue to practice them until you feel confident.

1. Practice in front of a mirror
2. Write a speech outline
3. Record yourself giving a speech, and then evaluate your self
4. Give your speech to a small audience, like family or friends
5. Feel the fear and do it anyway

Once you’ve mastered the tips above, you should feel confident enough to speak in public, but you’r probably wondering where to find speaking gigs. Finding speaking gigs depends on a few variables. Ask yourself the following questions.

1. What is your topic?
2. Who is your target audience?
3. How long do you want to speak to the same audience?
4. What impact do you want to have on your audience?
5. Who do you know and what resources do you have that can connect you to your target audience?

If you are looking to speak at colleges, that’s my specialty. I have worked in the college sector for more than 10 years. I have planned large scale events and small events for different types of colleges. If you want to know how to speak on a college campus schedule a free 20 minute consultation with me at mamietillmobley.com/chat. You may also want to check out this recent post about my speaker rituals.

If you want to know more about public speaking and how to find gigs, but don’t know how to get started, download the I’m Ready to Speak Workbook.