For many students, especially those enrolled in MBA or PGDM programs, public speaking can be impossible task. If you're a shy student who gets nervous before presentations, you’re surely not alone. Every confident MBA graduates would admit to feeling the same at some point.
Whether you're pursuing a PGDM or MBA, preparing for a group discussion, or aiming for leadership roles, public speaking skills distinguish you from the pack. But is it something one can learn? Yes, indeed.
Public speaking essentially prepares students not only in honing their skills of presenting but also instilling the confidence to communicate ideas, lead teams, and make an impact.
At top B-schools such as IES MCRC, students are encouraged to participate in:
These real-world platforms help students develop confidence, clarity, and credibility.
Practice in front of the mirror or record yourself.
Take the first few steps by speaking in smaller groups with your peers or during class discussions.
Volunteer for introductions or Q&A.
At IES MCRC, many faculty organise activities using small groups where students slowly develop confidence themselves.
Choose topics you are comfortable with.
Prepare an outline with points to practice.
Think about what kind of questions can be thrown at you and prepare answers beforehand.
Management students presenting a case study or business idea stand to gain a lot from deep preparation and practicing their presentation.
PPTs, props, or charts could take the limelight away from you and give it to your content.
Allow the visuals to cue you back on track.
Any marketing strategy presentation in an MBA college, or the pitching of a startup idea, will be well served by visuals for confidence and engagement.
Maintain eye contact with the more receptive members in the audience.
Use open gestures and avoid crossing your arms.
Stand tall - good posture is a sign of confidence.
Either take deep breaths or calm your nerves before speaking.
Take a genuine pause instead of filler words like “um” or “uh.”
This gets the parasympathetic nervous system going in an individual, which alleviates anxiety and adds a pleasant tone to one's voice.
Participate in campus groups like student club or debate club.
Attend workshops delivered by your B-school or an outside trainer.
At IES MCRC, communication skill sessions, leadership boot camps, and personality development workshops are regularly conducted as part of our PGDM curriculum.
Ask faculty and peers to suggest one area of improvement after every presentation.
Never be shy about seeking critiques; this is the quickest route to improvement.
Feedback is fuel. Even CEOs and public figures carry on improving with expert coaching.
Nervous and excited feelings comprise similar body responses.
Say, "I'm excited to share this idea" instead of "I'm scared."
This simple change in self-talk leads to a huge alteration in the way you experience public speaking.
At IES Management College and Research Centre, we understand that not all students are natural speakers. That’s why we integrate:
Our focus on holistic development ensures that even shy students find their voice, overcome stage fright, and emerge as confident leaders.
You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to be a great speaker. You just have to be clear, prepared, and authentic.
If you're shy today, remember - most great speakers once were. With structured practice, supportive environments like those at top MBA colleges, and the right mindset, you can become a speaker that people listen to and remember.
Start small. Speak often. Grow continuously.
