Give a Work Presentation
So you've been given a presentation at work and done all you can to prepare. Now there's nothing else to do but get up there and give it your all!
Before you do so, here are a few tips to help you give an effective presentation. Refer to my other article for more ways to prepare for your public speaking event.
Instructions
1. Prepare your speech. Think you can go up there and "wing it?" Maybe. But it's always good to be ready for anything. You never know when you'll be hit with a temporary memory loss, should you get nervous. In that case, it's always great to have something written down--even if it's just some bullet points of your message. Use a notepad, index cards or a laptop. But do have your presentation in writing.
2. Leverage technology. Not only is PowerPoint a great way to give your audience a visual--it takes the eyes off of you for a while. I find that I speak great when I know people are not looking at me! Maybe it helps to use a white board to jot down notes for the group. These are all great distractions for you as well.
3. Commune with nature. Make sure that it's not too hot in the room. This can not only cause you to sweat, but you'll lose the attention of your audience. I also recommend keeping water at a nearby table or under the podium. It's okay to take a sip to clear your throat too.
4. Look the part. Need I say that appearances count? Dress for the group. If it's a workshop you may be able to get away with nice slacks and a shirt or blouse. But if it's an executive meeting, it's three-piece suit all the way. Be nicely groomed and prepared with extra handouts, pens and pads for your audience.
5. Use the room. No one says you have to stand behind the podium. Move around if it helps. If you're using PowerPoint, you can walk around the room while you narrate. I also like to use the room to set up the seating appropriately. If it's a lecture, use a standard format. But if you're giving a small workshop, it's a great time to arrange the chairs in a more collaborative way. This gives your presentation an open, comforting, casual feel where participants can interact.
6. Beat stress. If you fall down, just get back up again. Everyone knows that public speaking isn't easy. Say someone asks a question and you don't have the answer--just tell them you'll get back to them after the presentation with more details. Are you starting to sweat? Take a sip of water. Feel like you're going to collapse? Give the group a 5-minute break and go do some deep breathing in the restroom.
