If you’re just starting out in your career or perhaps continuing your career in a new company, meetings can be the cause of stress and nervousness. Below are some tips to help you decrease your stress and impress your co-workers (and hopefully your managers):
- Try to get to the meeting room first and practice some deep breathing to calm down your nervous system.
- If you’re nervous about making a presentation, ask that your item be put on the agenda first.
- Review the agenda prior to the meeting if possible.
- Practice prior to the meeting – not just the presentation you may be making but practice responding to questions. Ask a co-worker or friend to help you.
- Try to engage your audience instead of talk at them. Ask open ended questions.
- Make notes – especially action items that apply to you. If you tend to be nervous in meetings, you might forget an important detail.
- Know yourself – self-reflect and find out what triggers your stress and try to eliminate it or to create coping mechanisms.
I thought I wanted to be at the meeting before the actual time so I wasn’t late – now I understand it could be to calm myself before the meeting – great insight
I also like to be prepared so review the agenda and make notes of topics I want to bring up or listen for as well as questions I have for the participants – I take notes for a reminder and to avoid eye contact – don’t forget to bring water or something to drink so that you can have a natural pause if you are unsure of how to answer so you can think before you speak