No doubt, you (like other executive women) are used to facing challenges fearlessly. Yet many of your peers say they simply dread one seemingly innocuous act: public speaking.

“Women are great at interpersonal communication and at motivating and inspiring people, but they can be reluctant to communicate and act in a way that appears as if they are taking credit,” says Bess Gallanis, a Chicago communications consultant who teaches women how to face an audience confidently.

Gallanis suggests replacing detailed facts and figures with engaging narrative. “The human brain is wired to respond to storytelling,” she says. ”You should be telling your personal story to build rapport and the company’s story to offer a vision of the future and how it helps customers succeed.”

Other pointers from Gallanis:

• Project confidence and authority with declarative sentences.
• Use eye contact, smiles and controlled gestures strategically.
• Maintain a low, soothing vocal register and even pace.
• Videotape and review rehearsals; then adjust your delivery.