Dos and Don'ts of Giving a Presentation

What are the dos and don’ts of giving a presentation?

Giving presentations is something that we do all the time whether we know it or not. Informally, we put ourselves on display every time we talk to others, walk down the halls, or eat in the cafeteria. Formally, we may give speeches or Power Point presentations to people in a board room, court room, or auditorium setting.

Here are some professional tips and skills that we can use to ensure that we improve our styles and mannerisms as we present ourselves to others.

Do be prepared

Knowing the expectation, requirements, and deadlines is always the first stage. We have to answer a number of questions before we can move forward to deliver our work. Where will the meeting take place? Who will be in the audience? What is the speaking list? How much time will we have for the presentation? Which type of technical equipment is available?

There are pitches that we give again and again but it is never to the exact same of people or for the same amount of time. The audience and environment always change along with the technical and audio equipment that is available. A great idea is to create a list of essential questions which match the various types of presentations which are routinely given that will serve as a checklist and guide for preparation. A soundness and realism is developed of the upcoming presentation by answering these questions and preparing the actions which have to be done prior to it.

Don’t forget the task at hand

During the presentation make sure to stay on topic. If needed, bring small note cards which can help to ensure that the major points are addressed. Never forget that the most important thing when giving a presentation is to stay in the moment. Turn off the cell phone and smart phones. There will be no text message or email checking.

Be sure that there is time for Q & A during the allotted meeting time and also that there is personal time open immediately after the meeting for networking and answering any additional questions. It is an excellent idea to create a list of challenging questions that may be asked on the presentation topic to guide our own personal understanding so we are not caught off guard. Again, practice makes perfect and role playing several times before the big day serves as a way to calm anxiety and nerves.

Do be engaging

It is important to keep the audience on their toes. Being interactive with the audience begins with wearing a smile the entire day. Make the presentation relevant and not overly repetitive. If giving a Power Point presentation keep the slides active but do not use too much text and animation which can be distracting. Investigate different Power Point rules and tips that fit a style that is fitting for the audience. Be updated on the knowledge of the materials of the topic and the current events of the day which can serve as ice breakers, leads, and fillers if the presentation gets slow.

Do not be culturally unaware

When facilitating presentations and meetings it can be very easy to let our nerves get ahead of ourselves and choose to mistake cultural insensitivity as ‘humor.’ Presentations are no time to be blasting off politically incorrect opinions. Of course, specific organizations each have their own topic and agenda but there is a difference between style and manners. Being politically correct and culturally diverse are characteristics which are found in great leaders. Use presentation opportunities as a moment to present ourselves as a role model for others not the person who gives insensitive jokes and opinions.

Be sure to check out other professional tips that this blog has offered.