We all ‘present’ ourselves every day, and as we know, “The Presentation is everything!”
Preparation in life is key and integral to being well-perceived and well-received by others. It helps you own your material and remember your goal: to convey your message by relating to your audience while remembering that every audience is different. Your ability to adapt, relate and successfully convey information is key.
As always, we emphasize preparation as a pre-requisite to any successful presentation.
When Presenting, Pay Special Attention to the Following:
Know your audience. Identify your client need and fulfill that need. Own your material; forwards and backwards, inside and out. Obtain a copy of attendee list in advance to familiarize yourself with who is coming and practice pronouncing names so you can use (perfectly pronounced) names during your program. Craft your compelling message… “what’s in it for them?” After you are introduced, shake hands with your introducer which sets the tone for your professional presentation. Dismount the stage as soon as possible, eliminating the stage as a “barrier.” You want nothing to interfere with the relationship you endeavor to engender between you and your audience. Voice is a powerful medium; use your voice to your advantage. Articulate clearly. Be careful of the “non-words,” “um,” “you know,” “you know, like, I mean,” etc. Body language conveys or betrays powerful information. Be aware of your stance, as well as use of hands and over-gesturing. Thank people for their question versus saying “that’s a great question” which suggests you are somehow grading or rating their question. Make eye contact with the person at the furthest point in the room; complete the thought. Do the same thing with each person as you work and wend your way up the aisles and through the room with your eyes until you have made eye-contact with everyone in the room, making each person there feel acknowledged. Walk participants to door, shake hands, use their name and thank each for coming and for your interest in your topic.
How we play the game of life lies within each and every one of us. How we conduct ourselves in our own dealings and interactions with others at home and work is key. My hope is this article will serve as an opportunity to raise the bar and heighten awareness of the importance of preparation, showing leadership and demonstrating respect in life.
Remember: what you are giving off, others can feel.
