If we all did what we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves. ~ T Edison
Tips
Quick Tips to Get Started
Step 1: Define the purpose; objectives.
Answer the question every audience member is thinking: “What’s in this presentation for me?”
Step 2: Develop a memorable opening.
How will you get the audience’s attention? Examples of openers:
Step 3: Create an outline.
What is the main point you want to make?
Follow that with rich examples or a relevant story to bring the point to life. People will remember the story or example and, therefore, the main point. People forget 75% or more of what they hear in 24 hours or less. Make it memorable.
Rule of Thumb: Develop 3-5 main points for an hour presentation.
Step 4: Plan for a Q&A.
Ask people what questions they have about your presentation.
Note: Do not close on the Q&A. People will remember the first thing you say and the last thing they hear. Make it memorable.
Step 5: Develop the close.
Relate the close back to the opening.
What do you want people to leave your presentation thinking or doing?
Example: show how your product or service will help the audience minimize time, money, or trouble.
Step 6: Rehearse. Rehearse. Rehearse.
Brilliant content will not save a poorly delivered presentation.
Presentation skills are easy to understand; more challenging to master. Rehearsing is the main antidote to managing nerves. The more comfortable you are with your presentation, the more you can focus on connecting with your audience, which is your key to presentation success.
“People today are drowning in information, but starving for meaning.” – John Naisbitt
Step 1: Define the purpose; objectives.
Answer the question every audience member is thinking: “What’s in this presentation for me?”
Step 2: Develop a memorable opening.
How will you get the audience’s attention? Examples of openers:
• Startling fact
• Short story that relates to your presentation
• Little known fact
• Relate to situation; to introduction
• Challenge to your audience
Step 3: Create an outline.
What is the main point you want to make?
Follow that with rich examples or a relevant story to bring the point to life. People will remember the story or example and, therefore, the main point. People forget 75% or more of what they hear in 24 hours or less. Make it memorable.
Rule of Thumb: Develop 3-5 main points for an hour presentation.
Step 4: Plan for a Q&A.
Ask people what questions they have about your presentation.
Note: Do not close on the Q&A. People will remember the first thing you say and the last thing they hear. Make it memorable.
Step 5: Develop the close.
Relate the close back to the opening.
What do you want people to leave your presentation thinking or doing?
Example: show how your product or service will help the audience minimize time, money, or trouble.
Step 6: Rehearse. Rehearse. Rehearse.
Brilliant content will not save a poorly delivered presentation.
Presentation skills are easy to understand; more challenging to master. Rehearsing is the main antidote to managing nerves. The more comfortable you are with your presentation, the more you can focus on connecting with your audience, which is your key to presentation success.
Copyright 2008, Susan Murphy
619.540.6435 Susan@SMurphyConsulting.com
