Three Essentials for Giving a Standout Presentation
Speaking in front of a large group and representing your business in a high-stakes situation can feel overwhelming. But, delivering an authentic presentation is possible with planning and practice.
Here's my three essentials:
1. Plan
2. Practice
3. Be personable
1. Plan
Preparing your remarks is the first step, but also anticipate and plan the details ahead of time. Here’s a few questions to jump start the planning process:
- How will you respond to questions?
- What is the layout and logistics of the venue?
- What will you wear?
- How you can leverage your remarks once given?
- How will you share with your network via email or social media?
2. Practice
It’s the key to giving a polished presentation and reducing anxiety.
- Practice as if it’s the real thing.
- Time your remarks to ensure they are within the given time frame.
- Rehearse with an audience to become more comfortable and seek feedback.
- Record yourself to review your remarks and body language.
3. Be personable
Create a connection with your audience by being yourself.
- Talk to the audience, as you would to a close friend. Use gestures and words that you typically use in conversation.
- Relate to your audience. Identify what they want to learn from you and consider their concerns, fears and questions.
- Respond to audience feedback. Be prepared to change the tempo of your speech of cut sections if needed.
Ready for free tidbits, insights, and reflections that I use with my clients every day to help their brands? Jump on the list to receive my quarterly newsletter.