Stand Up and Speak

This presentation skills article appeared in the public speaking magazine - MyBusiness.

Presentation Tips

There are some secrets that you can use to gain an edge when presenting. Reducing the fear associated with presenting begins well before you get up to speak!

Remembering your speech
Remembering your speech can actually be easy. The trick is to put the preparation in beforehand.

By spending the time to organise your thoughts in the days before your presentation, you will have greater ability to present in the way that best sells you and your ideas. If necessary, write your presentation out in full so you get all the important points down. Then condense the presentation down into the main points and a few sub points. This will form the notes you speak from.

Reading a presentation word-for-word can be useful in some situations, but not others. If you are presenting highly technical information to a large group you may get away with reading word for word. But if you are trying to persuade potential investors forget about it. When persuading you want to show a level of confidence. Reading notes word for word won’t do it.

Practice and Rehearsal
There is a difference between practice and rehearsal and both are important. Practice will get your presentation into your head, and rehearsal will make sure it comes out in the right order. Regardless of the type of presentation you are giving, rehearse exactly as you would give it. Like an actor, you need to know when and how you will be moving, gesturing and using any audio/visual equipment. Also, practice starting your presentation halfway through and continuing from there. This will give you confidence that you can start from anywhere if you lose you place.

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