In recent posts we covered the four keys to making a good presentation: content, voice, body language and visual aids. Think you have it nailed? Time to practice.
Even the most seasoned speakers get nervous. Practice helps them tamp their anxiety. They practice until they like what they hear. They prove to themselves that they can deliver a great presentation.
Practice makes you more competent. When you become more competent, you become more confident. When you are confident, you perform at your best.
Whenever you have on a speaking assignment – be it a ten-minute presentation, a one-minute eulogy or a ten-second toast – prepare with care. Ask a trusted confidant to critique you.
Start by checking your content. Make sure you are saying what you want to say.
If speaking from a script, say your words out loud. Which sentences sound good? Which sound too long or too complex? Which words are hard to pronounce, or not quite on the mark? Substitute better words as needed.
Next, check your voice. Think about your pace, volume, pronunciation and tone. Decide which words you want to emphasize. Underline them in your script. Note where it makes sense to pause.
How are you doing on body language — your posture, eyes, face and hands? Is your posture relaxed? Are you using your eyes to project confidence and credibility? Let your facial expressions reinforce your words. Make sincere smiles work for you. Work in your hands; add simple gestures to reinforce your key points.
Finally, double check your visual aids. Make sure your visuals enrich your verbal message.
No one masters these attributes all at once. But over time, your abilities will grow. You will learn how to choose your words. You will know how to use your voice and your body to connect with your audience. You will create visual aids that augment but don’t overpower you – the lead act. You might even look forward to taking the stage.