There was once a time waaaaayyy back in the 1980s when public speaking was considered one of the biggest normal fears a person could have. Now, many of us have grown up with a camera in our faces and it comes almost second nature.

But speaking at a public hearing in front of elected officials with real issues at stake is a still a daunting task. Still, you can’t avoid it forever. While there are plenty of folks who do just fine in the background of a political campaign or movement, eventually you’re going to have to take “the stump”.

When you go to speak at your first public hearing be mindful of the following.

Know the rules and sign up procedures: While many government bodies are pretty flexible with public speaking, others have rules. Mostly deadlines to sign up on the speaker list, which is usually done online or with a sign in sheet at the chambers. Also be mindful of what your time limit is and prioritize your main points. They might also ask you some questions. Be ready for those.

Rehearse your remarks and write them down if you need to: If you’re new, you might not be able to speak off the top of your mind like more seasoned politicos are able to. That’s okay. Write down your remarks and pace your words. Just be sure to look up frequently and keep the emotion in your remarks.

Attack the issue at hand, not the elected officials hearing you out: If you’ve got a close vote in front of your issue, then don’t attack the board and give them a reason to say no. And remember, you might have to come back to the same group another time.

After a while, you’ll enjoy being a part of the actual policy making process. And you’ll get better the more you do it. Enjoy the experience and grow from it.