Do you go out and speak as a way to promote your book? Or do you still shake in your boots at the thought of speaking in public? But it is such a great way to get word out about your novel or a nonfiction book. If at all possible, you really should be doing it.
Here are a few pointers to help get you started:
• Start out in a safe zone. Arrange to speak before small groups of people you know well and are comfortable with—your writing group, church auxiliary, neighbors, family members, co-workers, biking group, etc.
• Don’t look at this as a speech. Just pretend that you are sitting across from a dear friend sharing stories from your book or information on your topic.
• Sometimes we are fearful about speaking before a group because we think there will be others who know more about our subject than we do. So not true. You know more about your story or the topic of your book than anyone else in the room. Remember that.
• Do not make excuses about your lack of speaking skill. Just act confident and do your best. You may be surprised at the positive impression you leave with your audience. Most people won’t notice that you forgot a portion of your speech, that your voice tends to drop at the end of sentences, that you are extremely nervous—unless you mention it. They are most interested in your story or the information you are sharing.
• Practice, practice, practice. Speak often in a variety of circumstances—in business meetings, during charity events and socially. Schedule speaking opportunities for yourself frequently so you are forced to stay on the horse.
• Join a local Toastmasters club. Whether you just want to feel more comfortable while speaking in public or you hope to do a multi-state book tour, a year (or less) in a Toastmasters club will give you the confidence and skill level you seek. http://www.toastmasters.org
For more on public speaking, read this article: http://www.matilijapress.com/articles/speaking-gigs.htm
I have eight blog posts related to public speaking for authors. Check them out by scrolling down. Look to the right of this blog post where you see “categories.” Click on “Public Speaking.”
I also include a section on public speaking for authors in my book, The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book. http://www.matilijapress.com/rightway.html