The pandemic presented many challenges to the way we live and work. The birth of the beloved online meeting meant that a lot of the skills we had honed and perfected before, were simply lost or substituted for other skills.
How many of us had ‘crib sheets’ stuck to our screens, so that we could effortlessly sail through online speeches? Being seated and not having to worry about body language was a godsend for many!
With the return to the office, comes a return to presentations
For many, this strikes fear into the heart and, if you are like me, you may need to brush up on your presentation techniques to become a truly skilled presenter!
Here are my top five do’s and don’ts for perfect presentations
Do plan your content
Start by identifying your main message and organising your information clearly.
Do remember to KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid!)
Use simple language and avoid complex jargon or technical terms. Keep the number of slides to a minimum and use visual aids to help illustrate your points.
Do practice, practice and practice some more
Rehearse your presentation several times to build confidence and become familiar with the flow.
Do engage your audience
Use humour, anecdotes and interactive elements to keep your audience engaged and interested.
Do phone a friend
Ask a friend or colleague to give you feedback on your presentation and make adjustments accordingly, way before the day you are due to deliver! If you forget to do this – deliver your presentation to yourself in front of a mirror!
Don’t be unprepared
Not doing enough research or preparation can lead to a lack of confidence and an ineffective presentation.
Don’t read from slides
This is a BIG no-no! Reading directly from your slides will almost certainly bore your audience and make it difficult for them to engage with you.
Don’t be too technical
Using too much jargon or technical language can make it difficult for your audience to understand your message.
Don’t be monotone, think ‘tone of voice’
While you don’t want to deliver a West End performance, try to avoid a monotone delivery or standing still for the entire presentation. Be engaging and use body language to express yourself.
Don’t forget body language
I remember seeing a presenter who not only put his hands in his pockets, but as his nerves got the better of him, he began unconsciously shaking the loose change in them! Sounds unbelievable I know, but nerves and a lack of practice can play havoc with your body language.
Making sure you are ready to make the perfect presentation
If you want to brush up on those skills to make sure you’re ready for perfect presentations, take a look at our Skilled Presenter™ workshop:
- More about the workshop – www.indigobusiness.co.uk/tsp
- Our next London workshop is 11-12 May 2023 – book and view other workshop dates here – www.indigobusiness.co.uk/calendar/51
- Enquire about in-house training for groups and teams – https://www.indigobusiness.co.uk/in-house-training
