After the service, when you go to get the microphone from them, compliment them.
This helps them at their next engagement. If they struggled through their talk, encourage them.
“It’s ok, Babe Ruth struck out half the time he was at bat. Next time you’ll do great.”
If they are speaking at more than one service that day, this will help them build that confidence.
3. Lionel Logue, his speech coach.
Lionel taught him how to form words, how to focus on the words, and how to get the words to flow.
He walks him through the events of his coronation.
Lionel was not only his coach but also his friend. In the final scene, as the King is preparing to start his speech which would call England to war against Germany, Lionel looks at the King and says in-so-many words, “just talk to me.”
The take-away
Walk the guest speaker onto the stage, showing him/her where to walk and where to stand. The latter part is helpful if you have more than one podium on the stage, for example one for the pastor and the other for scripture readings.
Tell them, “in case you get nervous, just look at me.” When I first started in broadcasting, my boss told me, if you ever get nervous, put up a picture of someone you like and imagine you are talking to them.
Hand them a schedule so they know when they are to go on stage. I know they might have been told but if the guest speaker is very nervous, they could easily forget – now one more thing to worry about.
Summary
Public speaking is one of the most nerve-racking events that people go through.
You have the opportunity to help the next guest speaker that walks through your door.
You might even be able to help someone in your church who is going to speak for the first time.
Take those few moments you have when you help them with the microphone to give them the instructions and encouragement they need.
How have you helped nervous speakers? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!
Ready to learn and laugh? Chris Huff writes about the world of church audio at Behind The Mixer. He covers everything from audio fundamentals to dealing with musicians. He can even tell you the signs the sound guy is having a mental breakdown.