How You Can Be a Great Presenter! by Sara Neiman

The heat from the spotlight burned Jessica’s already flushed cheeks. Stammering over her introduction, she dropped her note cards- her lifelines. She bent over picking them up only to find the audience staring at her, blank expressions on a few faces, condescending smiles on others.

I hate presentations! She thought.

Ever been in Jessica’s shoes? I know I have many times. Although public speaking may be one of the top fears most people have, it can be mastered and become easier over time.

Here are some tips to help in your future public speaking and presentation endeavors:

-Take 4-5 deep breathes from the pit of your stomach to relax you.

-Remember the audience is on your side. They are glad it’s you up there are not them.

-People are more likely to learn when they are in a comfortable, relaxed environment. Try to convey these aspects by being comfortable yourself…or at least faking like you are.

-Smiling helps!!

-Practice, Practice, PRACTICE!! Good preparation and rehearsal will reduce your nerves by 75% and increase the likelihood of avoiding errors to 95%. (Source: Fred Pryor Organization, a significant provider of seminars and open presentation events.)

-If using visual aids, such as a PowerPoint, keep the slides fun and interactive.

-Avoid having too much information on your PowerPoint. It’s there as reference point not to make the presentation for you.


Remember these helpful tips next time you find yourself talking in front of a big, scary audience; who are, by the way, people just like you!


HAPPY PRESENTING!!


Works Cited:

http://www.businessballs.com/presentation.htm

He's confident and happy!!