Public speaking tops the list of many people’s fears, no matter how experienced or knowledgeable they may be. The anxiety speaking publicly causes typically stems from concern about slipping up in front of an audience and being seen as foolish.

Bluffing Your Way Through An Answer

Early in my consulting career, I bluffed my way through the response to a question when I did not know the answer. The client believed my half-true, half-fabricated response. Today, I would absolutely say, “I do not know the answer, but I will find out for you immediately after today’s meeting.” Then, do it. I wish I had been more comfortable owning my vulnerability early on. — Lisa Walsh, Beacon Executive Coaching, LLC

Originally published on Forbes Coaches Council.