10 Things You Must Do On the Day of Your Presentation

Picture this: You're all set for your big presentation. You've prepped, you've rehearsed, you've slipped into your 'power outfit.'

You've sent up a quick prayer to the presentation gods that you'll remember all the important points, deliver them with impact, your tech will work as planned -- and that the audience will be engaged, interactive, and will just "get it."

Now we just cross our fingers and hope for the best, right? (come on, we've all been there!)

But, let's face it, there are more curveballs than we'd like on presentation day. Technology hiccups, traffic jams, timing woes, unplanned interruptions, and those stylin'-but-a-little-too-uncomfortable shoes that seemed like a good idea... until they weren't.

Fear not! With a bit of savvy planning, you can make your presentation day a breeze. Here are 10 "must-do's" to make sure you shine like the powerful presenter that you are:

1. The Early Bird Gets... Everything!

Show up early. Get your tech sorted, lay out handouts (if you have any), and check that everything's working like a charm. Visit the washroom, check your zippers, and get this morning's breakfast out of your teeth. Scope out your speaking spot, make sure that there are no distractions or wires that you could trip on. By the time your audience come in, you should be all smiles and zero stress.

2. Backup, Backup, Backup

We all know that technology can be finicky. If you're using slides, have them on your computer, a USB drive, the cloud, and a link to access it in your email - which can also be emailed to someone else if it all goes wrong. And keep extra batteries for your online presenter (and also because extra batteries are always good for something!)

3. Shoe SOS

If it's a marathon day of speaking, pack some comfy shoes. High heels may look fabulous but won't be your friend for an all-day event. Even for men, the shoes with the flat arches and stiff leather will not facilitate having a good day. Start off by wearing your best, and then switch over once your amazing first impression is made. Flat and comfortable may just end up saving your day.

4. Pit Stop

About 15-20 minutes before showtime, do a quick once-over in the mirror. Remember to pack dental floss for every speaking engagement, because spinach in your teeth is not a good look for a speaker.

5. Meet the People

Greet your audience as they stroll in. It breaks the ice and makes them feel welcome, whether they're strangers or colleagues. Plus it gives you a chance to connect with them prior to your presentation, which can increase both your comfort level, as well as theirs.

6. Embrace the Microphone

If you’re going to be speaking in a large room and you are offered a microphone, take it. If there’s a doubt that people may not be able to hear you, take it. If you feel uncomfortable with a microphone and are sure that you can speak loudly enough throughout the presentation, you are wrong, so you should take it. Whether it’s a handheld mic or a lapel mic, you will get over the awkwardness as soon as you see the pleased looks of your audience as they don’t have to play detective to hear you.

7. Hydration Station

Keep water close by. Speaking can dry you out faster than you'd think. And go for a bottle – it hides shaky hands better than a glass.

8. Time Keeper

Time management is on you. Use a discreet travel clock or wristwatch to ensure that you don't go over your allotted time limit and eat into other peoples' time.

9. Strike a Pose

Ever heard of "power posing"? There's a TED talk all about it. In essence, when you pretend to be powerful, you are more likely to actually FEEL powerful. Stand confidently even when you're nervous, and it might just work its magic. Want to watch the full TED speech? Check it out here: https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are

10. Believe in Yourself

If you’ve prepared, practiced, and done everything on this list, have faith that everything will work out as it should. Your presentation doesn’t have to be perfect, but it DOES have to show your audience that you’ve put in time preparing something valuable, specifically for them and their needs.

Remember, presentation day is a rollercoaster. When you're prepared, you'll ride it like a pro. Your audience will appreciate the work that you put in for them, and the expertise that you're now able to share in a focused, organized and reputation-enhancing way.