You know it had to happen! This is the moment you've feared the most. Don't worry! You're not alone -- most people fear public speaking. No matter what level of experience you have, here are a few points to think about when you step in front of a crowd.

• Breathe (you may be surprised how many people forget to do this and how much it helps)

• Relax (this may be hard to do, but it might help if you refer to the first point)

• Know What You're Talking About (understand what you're speaking about, don't make up things, people can generally tell when you're faking it)

• Talk About What You Know (speak from personal experience and be yourself, a good speaker speaks from the heart)

• Posture (this is your moment, so take it and own it, stand up and be counted for)

• Articulate (clearly say your words and pause at the end of sentences -- when practicing it helps to exaggerate)

• Make Eye Contact (look into my eyes, you can keep people's attention by looking at them. If you can't make direct eye contact, try looking at people's foreheads)

• Project (talk clearly and loud, even if you think you are loud, you probably aren't)

• Use Complete Sentences (use statements that make sense and try not to drop off the end of your sentences)

• Practice (try to memorize or run through your speech as much as possible, practice in front of a mirror and number any note cards you may use)

For more information or for hard copies of our resource sheets, contact GSA Network: Statewide Office: 1550 Bryant St, Suite 800, San Francisco, CA 94103, ph: 415.552.4229, fax: 415.552.4729 Central Valley Regional Office: 928 N. Van Ness Ave., Fresno, CA 93728, ph: 559.268.2780, f: 559.268.2786 Southern California Regional Office: 605 W. Olympic Blvd, Suite 610, Los Angeles, CA 90015, ph: 213.534.7162, f: 213.553.1833