“I’m holding myself back because I can’t speak in front of groups.” I hear this, or some version of it, from 7 out of 10 managers I coach. And if that number sounds high, you’re not alone—public speaking consistently ranks as one of the most common fears, even among leaders. In fact, studies show more people fear public speaking than death. So, yes, some people would rather be the one in the coffin than the one delivering the eulogy. Let’s chew on that for a moment.
For managers, public speaking goes beyond formal presentations or giving a big speech at an annual meeting. It’s about speaking up in team meetings, leading discussions with direct reports, communicating to higher-ups, and delivering feedback. Yet, the moment they’re in front of a group, many managers freeze: What if I forget my point? What if people judge me? This fear, if left unchecked, can become a massive roadblock in your managerial journey.
Why Does Public Speaking Feel So Daunting for Managers?
Many managers dread public speaking because it often comes with a sense of being evaluated by others. We all want to appear competent in front of our peers and direct reports, but the fear of making mistakes or being judged can cause even seasoned professionals to feel self-conscious. But here’s the thing: Your team wants you to succeed. They’re not sitting there waiting for you to mess up. They want you to lead confidently because, let’s face it, their success depends on your leadership.
Research Shows You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling nervous about your public speaking skills, don’t worry—you’re in good company. Research from Chapman University reveals that nearly 75% of people fear public speaking, and many of them are managers just like you. But here’s the catch: a study by Forbes showed that strong public speaking skills are among the top five traits executives look for in leaders. Being able to speak clearly, communicate expectations, and motivate your team isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for your success as a manager.
The good news? Public speaking is a skill you can develop. It’s not an innate talent that only a few lucky people are born with. With practice and the right mindset, you can transform how you show up for your team.
Action Steps for Managers to Overcome Public Speaking Fear
1 - Start Small and Build Confidence: Begin by practicing in smaller, less intimidating settings—like team huddles or one-on-one meetings with direct reports. Gradually increase the size of your audience as you build confidence. Focus on leading discussions or sharing ideas where the pressure feels lower.
2 - Prepare Key Points, Don’t Memorize: Avoid the stress of memorizing every word. Instead, focus on key talking points that guide your message. This will help you stay on track if you lose your place and allow for a more natural, conversational delivery.
3 - Practice and Seek Feedback: Create opportunities to rehearse your speaking skills in a safe, supportive environment. Whether it’s recording yourself or practicing in front of a few trusted colleagues or friends, getting feedback is essential. You’ll not only improve your delivery but also realize you’re more capable than you think.
Fear of public speaking is a common obstacle for managers, but it’s also one of the most conquerable. The key is to recognize that public speaking, like managing, is a skill. And like any skill, it can be developed over time with effort, patience, and a bit of trial and error.
So, don’t let this fear hold you back from reaching your full potential as a leader. Your team looks to you for guidance, and by showing up confidently, you’ll not only inspire them—you’ll inspire yourself.
Action Item: Identify an upcoming team meeting or presentation where you can challenge yourself to speak up. Prepare your key points, practice, and deliver. Afterward, ask for feedback and reflect on what you did well. Remember, progress happens when you push yourself outside your comfort zone.
And one final note: no one in your audience is waiting for you to fail. Your team wants to see you hit that home run. Now step up to the plate and take your swing!