Presentation: Horror Movie or Opportunity

Preface

Presentation; one of the most common chapters for most of job holders and students; is interestingly one of the most feared act for many! There are some of course who enjoy it very much, but, in my life I have come across a lot of people who were almost killed by the very idea of it, almost like they were told to stay in a haunted house in a dark night! Mostly, I found this among the students. And people who are working in different organizations, they seem to not dread this as the students, but they have a lot of improvement areas.

While it is unwanted by many, presentation is one of the greatest opportunities for everyone to showcase their abilities, excel their confidence, communication and leadership and win the heart of people. Giving sometime to practice on this skill will surely help you to do much better in life. While practicing or doing an actual presentation, certain things you need to look after. Let’s see those tips below.

Presentation Isn’t a Horror Movie For You!

Presentations are generally 2 types based on delivery modality. One way- is when only the presenter(s) talks and some questions might be received in the end and two ways- is when both presenter(s) and participants actively participate in the session and questions come along as the presenter proceeds. Mostly training sessions are of the latter group and I personally enjoy the two way presentation because it gives me more opportunity to keep the participants more engaged. But, whichever the modality is, don’t be afraid! All you need is practice and getting used to with audience. Don’t forget, everyone has stage fright; you are not the only one! Accept it, face it and find means to overcome it. (Example- smile)

Watch "Presentation Excellence" tips on ReLearn's YouTube channel (Language: Bangla & English blended).

Steps of Presentation

Let’s Look at Different Steps or Stages of Presentation.

Entrance

If possible, enter at least before 30 minutes of the presentation time. It will get you more used to with the environment. Check all technical and logistical aspects like- pen and papers, computers, projectors, flip chart, etc. Prepare the handouts and handbooks so that you can access and provide it easily. Make room for you to walk around, if possible move the sitting arrangements for the participants a little

Arrival of the participants

At this point, your presentation has not started; participants just arrived. Take some measures to break the ice a little, for example, welcome them graciously, make small talks etc. Try to remain smiling and jolly. One thing you should not do is prepare the room in front of the participants. Get the preparation done before they arrive.

Beginning

This is a very important part of all presentations. Introduce yourself and the topic of your presentation. You can take a formal approach or you can take very dramatic entry with a shocking, surprising or funny story. Take the approach that you are comfortable with. What’s important above all is that you must not give the impression that it’s going to be boring. Break the ice, don’t be the ice yourself.

Deep into the topic

Whatever your topic is, you should always tailor your presentation speech and style fitting the audiences’ type and need. Your regular motivational speech with the working professionals might not work with school students. If you don’t want the yawning effect, adjust your speech and style. Have a clear understanding of who your audience is, what and why do you want to present (content and purpose), where you will be presenting (place), how do you want to present (slides to be used) etc. Structure the content in line with the audience’s needs. Prepare keeping in mind the time allotted and always try to anticipate the questions and prepare accordingly. Collect material from a variety of sources so that your knowledge horizon is wider. In case of multiple presenters, make a good plan to switch in between. Don’t just say, “Next part will be explained by the next speaker/team member”. I have seen this type of transition with the students mostly. It doesn’t look good. Make a good transition, relate the next speaker’s topic with yours and hand over the platform in a smooth manner.

Ending the Presentation

Closing minutes are as crucial as the beginning minutes for a presentation to be successful. The conclusion should re-state or emphasize the essential messages. Keep it short and simple, but DO NOT just fade off. Also preferably do not introduce any new information to round off the speech. You can always suggest actions based on the presentation.

A few Etiquette and Aspects

·        Wear the right dress. Formal is safer, but if you wear casual, be sure that it’s accepted in the gathering.

·        Whatever technology you are using, understand that well.

·        Look towards all, have eye contact with all. Don’t fix your eyeballs to one place or person.

·        Stand straight put equal pressure on both of your feet if not sick or physically challenged in anyway.

·        Try not to show your back, unless you have to.

·        Don’t get rooted with the floor! Walk around with small steps. It will make you feel good and look more dynamic.

·        If you feel nervous, accept it. It happens to all. Stop thinking stuff like “I need to calm down. Why am I do nervous?” etc. because these thoughts are probably making you even more worried.

·        Be emotionally intelligent enough to show empathy when someone is sharing a sad story.

·        Make a good, commanding yet humble voice projection over the hall, classroom or venue.

·        Preparation is the key. The more you practice, the more relaxed you will feel and look.

In The End

Always remember, presentation starts from the moment you or the presenter entered the room, not from the moment you start speaking. And it ends when you leave the room and head out for home, or someplace else. So, take caution from the moment you enter the venue till the moment you leave it. Be nice to everyone you see around, because people are watching you already. Your audience won’t trust you or your words if you make a bad impression somehow. Finally, very, very important; keep smiling and know when to smile or laugh. It helps you and your audience both.

Have a fantastic presentation!