Not everyone is great at public speaking, in fact it is known to be a common fear.
Nevertheless, giving presentations is a great way for an entrepreneur to grow their business; by positioning themselves as an expert in front of a targeted audience.
Here are a couple of tips to help ensure your next presentation goes smoothly:
Do a tech check
The technological requirements of a presentation may not seem like a big deal but it only takes one burnt out projector bulb, or a missing extension cord, or a dead battery, or incompatible software to ruin everything. Make sure you do a practice run-through and make sure all things technological (right down to the laser pointer) are working smoothly.
Get someone to introduce you
First impressions are important. Get the speaking event organizer to give you a proper introduction so that you have instant credibility. Don’t be shy about writing the introduction yourself, but do try to get someone else to deliver, again for credibility. Credibility will help you build instant rapport with your audience.
Begin with the big picture
At the very beginning of your presentation, indicate what your goals are and what topics you’ll be covering, so that your audience will see the purpose of your talk right from the get-go. Don’t over-stuff your presentation with too many details, and follow a very logical course, so that audience can follow you easily. Remember, they can always reach out to you later if they want to learn more (in fact, you want them to reach out to you).
Don’t put everything on your slides
Your visual aids or PowerPoint slides should only feature your presentation highlights, not give the whole story. You don’t want your audience to stop and read your slides because that means they won’t be listening to you. Remember that YOU are the star of this show, not your visual aids.
Don’t read and don’t memorize
While you should rehearse, resist the urge to memorize your presentation word-for-word as you will likely just sound stilted and unconvincing. Instead, put your main bullet points on hand-held cards, take a deep breath, and just talk about the information you already know so well.
Include stories
Audiences retain your information better if you tell stories, especially emotionally-charged ones. Not only can a good anecdote drive your point home, it’s far more entertaining than sitting through dry, cold facts. Showing some emotion and passion through story-telling will also make you more likeable to your audience.
Need a hand with your business’ brand? Call Kim Speed at Purple Moon Creative today!
Need a hand with your business’ brand? Call Kim Speed at Purple Moon Creative today!
