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Becoming a Potent Presenter
by
Dave Willmer, executive director of Office Team
Nearly every professional will have to lead a presentation before a group of
colleagues or customers at some point. Delivering a good speech, however, is
no easy task, even for those who do it frequently.
Careful preparation can increase your confidence and help reduce the risk of
mishaps. Here are some tips for delivering an impressive presentation, no
matter how nervous or uncomfortable you may be:
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Consider your goal and audience. Are you trying to inform colleagues
about new procedures, train your team on new software or present the results
of research you have conducted for your boss? Once you’ve determined your
aim, craft your presentation to offer audience members a tangible set of
benefits, such as how a new process or product can save them time or money.
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Bring cue cards. It’s wise to have index cards containing key points
on hand whenever you’re asked to present. Even if you know what you want to
say, your notes will serve as a backup and boost your confidence.
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Rehearse. Even the most knowledgeable speakers need to rehearse their
delivery. Unless you’re an improvisational whiz, you don’t want to wing it.
Practice your presentation before a mirror or in front of friends. Pay
attention to any distracting habits you may have, such as clearing your
throat or running your fingers through your hair. These behaviors can be
avoided once you’re aware of them.
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Slow down and relax. Try to maintain a moderate pace — not too quick or
too slow. Start in a calm, measured way and articulate your words clearly so
they are easily understood. Take natural pauses when appropriate and don’t
forget to breathe. You’ll also appear more personable and relaxed if you
don’t read verbatim from a script and smile from time to time. In addition,
avoid jargon or acronyms with which your audience may not be familiar — it
can be both confusing and frustrating for them.
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Recover when necessary. Slip-ups happen. If you suffer a presentation
snafu, don’t panic. Take a deep breath and focus on maintaining your
composure. Do your best to get back on track as soon as possible. If the
matter could take a few minutes to resolve, such as a technical glitch or a
spill, suggest a quick “intermission.”
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Ask for feedback. After you’ve presented, ask for feedback from
colleagues and others whose opinion you value. Encourage them to provide
constructive criticism and try to learn from their comments.
Overcoming hesitations you may have about public speaking can boost your
confidence, enhance your contribution to your organization and, ultimately,
help you advance your career. Keep in mind that public speaking is a skill
that improves with practice — the more experience you acquire, the better
you will be at it.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dave Willmer is executive director of OfficeTeam, the nation’s leading staffing service specializing in the temporary placement of highly skilled administrative and office support professionals. OfficeTeam has more than 300 locations worldwide and offers online job search services at
www.officeteam.com.
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Karen Porter, The Administrative Professional Job Performance and Career Success Coach™
