A fear is a fear is a fear…here are some simple tips to help reduce your fears when making a presentation.

Know Your Topic. Practice, practice, practice...enough so you can deliver naturally without looking overly rehearsed.

Pump Yourself Up. Remember, the audience doesn’t see the fear that you feel.

Focus on Your Audience. It’s really not about you. Give your audience what they came to hear and learn.

Have a Conversation. Instead of using a formal, unnatural speech pattern, tell a story authentically.

Breathe Deeply. Shallow breathing can add to your fear and make you light-headed.

Act Naturally. Your audience will read your body language. Stand confidently with solid posture, no fidgeting and good eye contact.

Smile. Audiences respond to a warm smile. And the positive endorphins you'll release can help you relax.

Following these tips will help increase your confidence and decrease your fears.