Presentations

Happy Friday!?

Welcome to this edition of “Presentations?(#267).”?

It’s my 15th year of writing and directing skits for the Telugu Language program kids that I teach at the non-profit, SiliconAndhra ManaBadi . It's as rewarding as it is exhausting, but at the end of the day, it's totally worth it. Over these years, I have not only taught them but have also learned a lot myself about “presenting.” Here are a few things I do religiously every time, and they always payoff:?

Speaking clearly?— I always encourage them to practice their lines with a prop in their hand that resembles a mic in both size and weight. This helps them become comfortable and aware of the mic’s position, which has a huge impact on the audience's ability to hear them clearly. Additionally, I tell them that if they forget their lines, they shouldn’t panic; they should be creative and improvise. I remind them that the audience doesn't know their lines.????

Audiences are the key?— Kids at that age can easily get carried away and end up saying their lines to other kids on stage, facing each other and forgetting that they are performing for the audience. Meanwhile, the audience is left wondering who is talking to whom and what’s going on. Therefore, I spend a lot of time having them practice their positions on stage, so they remember to face the audience when delivering their lines.?

Managing jitters?— I always begin their practices by saying, “It’s natural to have butterflies in your tummy and a slight shiver in the back of your calf muscles when you're on stage facing an audience.” I encourage them to accept and acknowledge these feelings and to use that adrenaline rush productively to deliver their content with confidence.?

Even in the corporate world, presentations are a means for us to convey our messages. Just as my students do, each of you can also benefit from these reminders, as they apply to your situations. Let’s delve into them.?

Speaking clearly?— No matter the setting, clear communication is always paramount. Just as my students practice with a mock microphone, you should rehearse your presentations aloud, paying close attention to your tone and pace. This helps build confidence and ensures that the message is delivered effectively. For an impactful presentation, strive to open with a question that captivates your audience, answer it with a short story, and then state the purpose of your presentation succinctly.?

Audiences are the key?— Just as my young actors sometimes forget their audience, many corporate presenters fall into the trap of focusing solely on their slides or notes, neglecting the people in the (virtual) room. A presentation should be a dialogue, not a monologue. Especially after making your key point, take a pregnant pause, pay attention to your audience's reactions, make eye contact, and let the message sync with your audience. Creating a connection with them is crucial for ensuring that your message resonates and leaves a lasting impact.?

Managing jitters?— Nerves are a natural part of presenting, whether you're a child performing in a skit or a seasoned professional delivering a keynote. Acknowledging and embracing these jitters is the first step toward managing them. Instead of trying to suppress them, channel that energy into enthusiasm and passion for your topic. Take a few deep breaths before you start. Remember, your audience is rooting for you, not against you.?

Let me wrap with this wise statement?Dale Carnegie made about presentations, "There are always three speeches for every one you actually give: the one you practiced to give, the one you actually give, and the one you wish you gave."????

I welcome you to share your thoughts on making effective presentations.??

Have a great weekend.