Presentation Skill Development 1

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the years as a public speaker is that it’s extremely important to develop a personal speaking style.?Since I know I’m not the most eloquent speaker in the world, I make up for it by packing my presentations with enthusiasm, and tons of useful content, as well as some planned, but simple humor as part of my storytelling.?

We can't all deliver the next Gettysburg Address, but there are lots of small things you can do prior to your presentation that will help calm your nerves and set you up for a better presentation. Here are some tips to improve your presentation skills.

(1) Practice

It is best to practice run for a friend or colleague, or try recording your presentation and playing it back to evaluate which areas need work. Listening to recordings of your past talks can clue you in to bad habits you may be unaware of, as well as inspiring the age-old question: "Is that what I really sound like?”

(2) Watch Others

If you're giving a talk as part of a conference, try to attend some of the earlier talks by other presenters.?There are numerous video sources of various speakers and topics.?Spend some time watching them.

(3) Be the Early Bird

It's always best to allow yourself plenty of time to settle in before your talk. Extra time ensures you won't be late and gives you plenty of time to get adapted to your presentation space. ?Make sure to spend some in the room where you will be delivering your presentation.

(4) Be the Greeter

Do your best to chat with people before your presentation.?Talking with audiences makes you seem more likable and approachable.?Ask event attendees questions and take in their responses. They may even give you some inspiration to weave into your talk.

(5) Visualize

Be like a golfer or a ball player and visualize.?The athletes visualization the ball in flight and where it will land.?As you visualize keep it positive.??

(6) A Pleasant Smile

Smiling replaces anxiety with calm and making you feel good about your presentation.??Smiling exhibits confidence and enthusiasm to the crowd..?Just don't overdo it;?no one enjoys the laughing clown look.

Check back later for the second article in this series.