How to conquer my public speaking fear?

I need some tips in how to stop the fear of public speaking...

Public speaking in general is one of the to 10 biggest fears in the world. For some it's realy hard but others it just comes naturally. First I suggest you relax because even if you so mess up it's not the end of the world. Second for practice try talking to people in big groups so you get more used to the atmosphere of a bigger crowd. Just remeber to be calm speak slowly and don't stress it. It's just like having a conversation with one person it may seem like a big deal but it's not and I'm sure once you get over this fear then you will not have a probelm good luck!

I really dislike Public Speaking. Once upon a time I used to have no fear getting up in front of large crowds and talking, then in High School I got really scared about it. Which was bad because I ended up having to do it a lot in my final High School year. And although I was doing it regularly (like once a week) I was always scared every time.

How I used to deal with it was:
- Think to yourself, that the audience would be just as freaked out as you are if they were the ones talking.
- What you've got to say is most likely not going to be repeated, or bettered by someone else. So you're not going to be outdone - if its bad, they're not going to know any better.
- As long as you seem confident, and have a calm clear voice, you have nothing to worry about.
- The talk you give always seems 10 times worse from your point of view than it does to the Audience. So if you think you handled it not too bad, from the Audience's point of view you did really great.

Good Luck!

Try imagining the audience naked,lol

Join Toastmasters International..there are chapters in all major cities.
This organization is dedicated to learning to become an effective public speaker, and
will help you to overcome any shyness etc. It is the oldest and best known of such organizations. seriously...give it a try!

A couple more things to add to the great info above...

1) KNOW your material inside out and back to front. That will give you the most confidence.

2) Start out with small groups (4 to 5 people) and eventially bigger ones (50 +!) will get easier.

I have always had the fear of speaking in front of a big crowd, until recently, all you have to do is put your focus on one thing in the audience, like a clock in the very back of the room, or somebodies goofy looking hat! before you know it you over come your fear and your speaking in front of huge audience!

do it more often. maybe in front of family or friends, people you trust. you should gradually get used to it. just don't stand with your knees locked for too long, ou will faint.