The first Saturday in April I acted as Chair and host of our libraries first Romance Symposium & Book signing.  I was nervous about standing in front of people to conduct a question and answer forum. Even though I was familiar with the authors and had known them by way of my online Yahoo group for several years (one almost 10), I was meeting them face-to-face for the first time. Also, I was representing the library as well as my online group–what can I say, I was really nervous. Aside from the OMG, what if people don’t show up, there was the odd what ifs, what if…, what if….

I found that although I did not absolutely love standing in front of a crowd, I definately did not absolutely hate it–not only that, I  would be willing to do it again  The one thing I had going for me was that I thoroughly knew my subject and that helped a great deal. Putting my questions on paper helped to quide me and keep me on target. I would say that the first rule is to stay calm. I know that’s easy to say, but how do you manage that? 

It helps to:

Know your subject. The more you know your topic, the more secure you’ll feel. Do your homework; anticipate questions; be ready with additional information.
Write it down and practice! Rehearse thoroughly before addressing the audience. You’ll get used to your own voice and to standing up and talking for 20 minutes. Practice also gives you the opportunity to make changes ahead of time, removing awkward sentences or changing words.
Arrive early. Walk around, check out the facilities, familiarize yourself with the layout, and rehearse again at the venue.
Loosen up. Take slow, deep breaths. Sip water slowly instead of drinking caffeine drinks.