Be Prepared
A lot of our presentation anxiety can be nullified or at least minimised by knowing that we have prepared well. Here are some ideas that you may find useful as the presentation time approaches.
- Practice. Do this at least three times, standing up and speaking aloud – as loud as you intend to deliver the speech. If possible, practice at the venue.
- Have good notes. Not too many, only bullet pointed, on cards (not paper), one sided and with very large, clear print. If you can find it, see it and read it then they’ll be an asset to you.
- Dress. Look the part. Be smart, clean, fashionable and co-ordinated. Be mindful of anything too garish that might distract the audience. Remove anything that can jingle like keys, coins, bracelets etc.
- Bathroom. Take care of Mother Nature. Whilst there, recheck your clothes and consider the following two points (5 & 6):
- Breathe. Use correct breathing techniques to get oxygen to the muscle groups and senses.
- Shake out any nerves. Lose the nervous energy as best you can. Re-enter the room with a smile on your face.
- Drink water before you stand up to present. Recheck the smile. Visualise success. You’ve done the hard work already.
- Start with a bang. Have a good impact opening statement that catches their attention and stops their assessment of you.
Preparation is vital in determining the outcome of any presentation. Some people like to ‘wing it’ and I’m sure we’ve all been in the audience when they have, and wished they would just fly away. Be professional, be prepared.