Speaking Tips – Stop Worrying and Start Presenting!

In this video Erin Manning will talk about tips & techniques to help people prepare for their presentations. How to prepare? What to expect? Dos and Don’ts. From concept to execution – it’s all here!

THE PRESENTATION

• PREPARING YOUR MESSAGE
  – Review your promotional pieces: are you covering what’s advertised?
  – Make the information relevant: what’s important to the audience?
  – Don’t commercialize your product: give people valuable information.
  – Clarify your core message, then create an outline.
  – Give examples, use research findings, recommend other sources of information.
  – Don’t be too serious, people love to laugh: tell stories.
  – Organize your presentation by stating your purpose and what’s covered, giving information and then reminding them.

• PREPARING THE VISUAL CONTENT
  – Limit each slide to one idea: less is more.
  – Images are so powerful: use them in your presentation.
  – Make your text legible: 30 point size is the minimum.
  – If you use graphs, make sure they are clear and simple (big and bold).
  – Know your material, don’t just read your slides.
  – Know the length of your session, and time your presentation accordingly. Try to leave 10 minutes at the end, for questions and answers.
  – If there’s more than one speaker find out the timing, the format, and what you should contribute (the moderator should be in contact with you, prior to the session).

• PREPARING YOURSELF
  – Practice presentation in front of friend, family, the mirror, or videotape for review.
  – Rest your voice the day before, stay hydrated!
  – Wear business professional clothing: solid, flattering colors are best.
  – Things to bring: computer, AC cord, VGA-DVI connector, bottled water, cough drops, remote, back-up of your presentation.
  – Keep in mind: the meeting room may be used before and after your presentation.
  – Check your lighting and equipment.
  – Meet and greet your audience.

• DELIVERY TIPS
  – Establish eye contact with your audience: connect with a few friendly faces.
  – State your purpose, and lay out your agenda.
  – Avoid distracting your audience: watch your body language.
  – Show some enthusiasm, and your audience will too.
  – Watch the time: people have tight schedules.
  – Have fun, it’s contagious!