4 Ways You Can Overcome Glossophobia* and Become an Amazing Social Work Speaker

by Dr. Veronica L. Hardy, LCSW

     Have you ever heard of glossophobia? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it is defined as a fear of public speaking and “in anticipation of speaking in public, a person with glossophobia can experience a dry mouth, weak voice and uncontrollable body shaking” (Merriam-Webster.com). Public speaking is practiced throughout the social work profession—for example, during advocacy in response to needs of various populations, facilitating groups, teaching social work courses, providing training in the workplace, speaking during conferences, and serving as field instructors. This is a critical skill in the social work profession as we disseminate knowledge and seek to provide education to enhance the well-being of others.

     Certainly, when it comes to public speaking, we may experience a range of reactions, from self-doubt and slight nervousness to sweating and hoping the event is postponed or cancelled. Either way, public speaking seems to trigger a diverse range of reactions for many. If you can relate to the above, then these tips may be helpful toward decreasing anxiety-related reactions and increasing your amazing abilities as a social worker engaging in public speaking opportunities.

1. Build a Public Speaking Mindset

     As a social worker, I have found that I am most nervous right before the presentation, doubting my abilities as a speaker. Have you experienced this, as well? If so, it is time to reset your focus and build a public speaking mindset. Study the art of public speaking by joining organizations. One of the most prominent is Toastmasters, which is a nonprofit that provides educational and networking opportunities to build your public speaking abilities. There are also introduction to public speaking courses via learning platforms such as Coursera, or even blogs, including The Accidental Communicator.

     In addition, observe other social workers who engage in public speaking. For example, Mildred “Mit” Joyner is currently the President of the National Association of Social Workers and engages in multiple speaking events, including conferences, podcasts such as NASW Social Work Talks, and Facebook Live events called Essential Chat with Mit!

     Overall, seek out ways to immerse yourself in public speaking education, networks, and practice opportunities. Build your public speaking mindset by gaining knowledge and observing those who have crafted their public speaking skills.

2. Focus on the Audience

     When provided with a public speaking opportunity, whether as a social work class presentation, in the workplace, or at a conference via Zoom, there is often a tendency to focus on ourselves. For example:

• Is my outfit okay?
• How will I sound?
• What will they think of me?
• I am so uncomfortable in front of other people.

     Realize how these thoughts contribute to a sense of speaking anxiety. In response, you might try to cope by staying behind the podium, staring at the slides, avoiding eye contact with the audience, or reading directly from your notes. All of these tactics place distance between you, the audience, and the content you are presenting.

     As a result, rather than focusing on yourself, set your focus on the audience from the very beginning. Prior to developing the presentation, answer these questions to give yourself a framework for developing the presentation with the audience in mind:

• What is the purpose of the event?
• Who is the audience?
• What are the audience’s needs?
• What information would benefit them?
• What delivery methods would be best?

3. Get Ready to Launch

     Now that you have built a public speaking mindset and developed a presentation with the audience in mind, it is time to practice. Whether in front of a mirror, while cooking and cleaning, or with a few people you are comfortable with, rehearse your presentation. This will allow you to become familiar with the material, identify any possible pitfalls or areas to strengthen, and gain insight about your unique presenting style. Observe your body language, tone of voice, rate of speech, timing, and your ability to explain concepts and to involve the audience in activities.

     TEDx Talks is a great platform to observe the styles of other public speakers. For example, Dr. Anna Scheyett, Dean and Professor at University of Georgia School of Social Work, provided a talk titled Social Workers as Super-Heroes. What do you notice about Dr. Scheyett’s body language, tone of voice, or rate of speech? What do you envision for your unique style of public speaking? Overall, engage in consistent practice to enhance your confidence and comfort before the presentation day arrives.

4. Engage in Game Time!

     When the day arrives, think of what athletes do right before game time! They engage in motivational talks, encourage each other, listen to energizing music, and engage in other inspirational activities. As a social worker, take time to do this for yourself at least an hour before the presentation. Tune in to music that inspires you, eat a good meal, talk to an encouraging friend, engage in your favorite form of self-care, and then enter your presentation with confidence.

     It’s game time!

Dr. Veronica L. Hardy, LCSW, is a Professor of Social Work at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Dr. Hardy is a social justice advocate, professional consultant, author, and mentor to new social workers and junior faculty members. She is the creator of The Social Work Lounge, a mentorship group facilitated via Facebook.