Presentation Skills and Adrenaline

by Karl von Buddenbrock

Without a doubt, over the years, I’ve found the most challenging aspect of training a course on presentation skills has been the nervousness of the Course Participants. I can teach them all the content stuff, the packaging of their material, the excellent research techniques, the anecdotes and illustrations, the jokes, the pace. But when they stand in front of their colleagues (not to mention what happens when they stand in front of their clients), it mostly goes pear shaped.

Why is this? I can tell you from the point of view of someone who has to stand in front of people and present, over about 40 years, that we also have the jitters, but it’s as if the energy spurs us on, to go for bust. And if we mess up, it’s not the end of the world. Just the adrenaline, the energy. I’ve had euphoric moments because of all the adrenaline release, the endorphins flooding into my system.

One just has to learn how to harness that energy. The causes of nervous energy, ironically, have to do with the same juices that can save you when you are in a stressful situation. Adrenaline, cortisol. Immediately, they flood the system and the flight or fight response is initiated. But, for reason we struggle to understand, the adrenaline can actually freeze you, if you let it. And then it becomes worse. I’m not sure how to transition from “freezing” to “freeing”, and it’s certainly not about the “survival of the fittest”, a mantra that has been forced down our throats at schools, universities and colleges ever since Darwin, but it’s just a transition. Let that adrenaline help you. Let me tell you what’s happening to you.

1. Increased Alertness and Awareness: Adrenaline activates the brain’s “fight or flight” response. It binds to receptors in the brain, particularly those in the amygdala and hypothalamus, which are involved in the regulation of emotions and stress responses. This leads to increased alertness and heightened awareness of the environment.
2. Enhanced Memory Formation: Adrenaline can enhance the formation of memories, particularly for emotionally charged events. This is related to its effects on the amygdala and hippocampus, which are brain regions involved in memory processing.
3. Improved Cognitive Function: Adrenaline increases blood flow to the brain by dilating blood vessels, providing more oxygen and glucose to support increased cognitive function. This can result in improved decision-making and faster reaction times.
4. Focused Attention: The release of adrenaline can enhance attention and concentration. It helps to narrow the focus of attention on the immediate threat or challenge, allowing for a more efficient response.
5. Mood and Arousal: Adrenaline is associated with increased arousal and can influence mood. It can induce feelings of excitement, anxiety, or fear, depending on the context of its release.
6. Dilation of Pupils: Adrenaline causes the pupils to dilate (enlarge). This physiological response allows more light to enter the eyes, improving vision and the ability to detect potential threats in the environment.
7. Inhibition of Non-Essential Functions: Adrenaline suppresses non-essential bodily functions, such as digestion and immune system activity. This redirection of resources is part of the body’s preparation for a quick physical response to a perceived threat.

Now, think about that. Who would not want that in preparation for a presentation? Better cognitive function? Increased alertness? You’re observing people’s body language better than anyone else. Increased memory? Your memory of your notes is better than anyone else in the room. Dilation of pupils? Ever seen the movie “Limitless”? That’s what happens to you. You need to learn how to harness it.

Here are some hints as to how to do that.
Harnessing the advantages of adrenaline release can be beneficial in situations that require heightened alertness, focus, and physical performance. Here are some best practices to make the most of the advantages of adrenaline:
1. Recognise and Embrace Stressful Situations: Acknowledge that stress is a natural part of life. Develop a positive mindset toward challenges, viewing them as opportunities for growth and learning.
2. Effective Stress Management: Learn and practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness. Regular exercise can help regulate stress responses and promote overall well-being.
3. Preparation and Training: Proper training and preparation for challenging situations can build confidence and reduce anxiety. Simulate or practice scenarios to enhance familiarity and reduce the fear response.
4. Optimise Cognitive Function: Adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive function and emotional regulation. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support optimal brain function.
5. Positive Visualisation: Use positive visualisation techniques to envision successful outcomes in stressful situations. Focus on the aspects of the situation that are within your control.
6. Channel Energy Productively: Engage in physical activity to channel the increased energy and physical readiness that adrenaline provides. Practice activities like exercise or sports to help release built-up tension.
7. Maintain Perspective: Assess the situation objectively and determine whether the stress response is proportionate to the actual threat. Keep a long-term perspective, recognizing that many stressors are temporary.
8. Utilise Peak Performance Windows: Identify periods of increased alertness and focus during the day and schedule important tasks during these times. Take advantage of the heightened cognitive abilities that adrenaline can provide.
9. Practice Controlled Breathing: Practice deep, controlled breathing to help regulate physiological responses and maintain a calm demeanor. Slow, rhythmic breathing can counteract the effects of hyperventilation during stress.
10. Learn from Experiences: Reflect on past experiences to understand how you responded to stress and identify areas for improvement. Use each experience as an opportunity for growth and refinement of coping strategies.

Remember that while adrenaline can be advantageous in certain situations, chronic stress or excessive activation of the stress response can have negative consequences. Balancing stress with effective coping strategies and maintaining overall well-being is essential for harnessing the benefits of adrenaline in a sustainable manner.

To find out more about Karl and the training courses that he offers please click here.