1. Review Room Logistics
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Before your presentation, take the time to visit the location
where you will be speaking. Study the room, walk the stage and meet with
staging personnel to gain information about equipment and audiovisual needs.
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2. Know Your Audience
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Talk with the group's coordinator prior to the presentation to
learn more about the audience. Find out the group's interests, touchy issues
(you want to avoid while presenting) and some inside jokes. This will help
build credibility with your audience. |
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3. Practice Makes Perfect
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Know your program materials and take the time to rehearse your
presentation. |
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4. Approach and Confidence
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After you have been introduced, walk slowly and confidently to
the presenting area. Thank and shake hands with the person who introduced you.
Before you begin speaking, scan your audience-smile and take a moment to look
about the room. |
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5. State Your Agenda
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After your welcoming remarks, start your presentation with an
agenda that summarizes the key points you will cover in your presentation.
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6. Gestures and Posture
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As you are speaking, maintain eye contact. Use vocal, facial
and hand gestures to emphasize key points. Be sure your posture is poised at
all times and avoid hiding behind the podium-if possible, go out into the front
of the audience. |
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7. Watch Your Positioning
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If you are using overheads, be sure you are not blocking the
screen and never turn your back to the audience. |
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8. Hold the Group's Interest
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Use humor (when appropriate), analogies and
"real-life" experiences to hold the group's interest. |
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9. Summarize Key Points
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Conclude by summarizing the key points of your presentation.
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10. Allow Time for Questions
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Whenever possible, allow time for questions the group may have.
If you don't know all the answers, develop a methodology for getting back to
the group with a prompt reply. |
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