Sometimes as the leader of a team, club or organization, or even at a business networking event, you will be required to make an oral presentation.  If just the thought of that makes you squirm, here are some things to focus on that will help to take some of the pressure away.

Be sure to dress both appropriately for the group you are addressing and your own comfort.  That doesn’t mean you can wear sweats for a business presentation, but it does mean you can opt for a business casual look if that suits you better than a jacket and tie.  Most importantly, be neat and together looking.

The group you are speaking to will take their cues from you so be aware of your body language and attitude.  If the group gets the impression you don’t want to be there, neither will they.  If you can convey interest and enthusiasm, everyone will enjoy the presentation.

Even if you’re nervous, remind yourself to sound confident.  Speak clearly in a volume that is comfortable for you and audible to the group.

Prepare your presentation well.  Make a rough draft to work from that you can add and delete items from as you plan your talk.  Make a list of the points you want to cover and use this to speak from.  Never use a fully written speech as it is too easy to lose your place.  Make your bullets large and easy to read.

Rehearse your presentation well and if you can, present it in front of a friend or colleague.

Well before your presentation make sure that all your equipment is in place and set up properly.  If you are using slides, make sure they are in order and that you have their order marked on your presentation cards.

When delivering your presentation, be sure not to rush. Speak at a normal conversational tone and allow people to absorb what you are saying.

Although it’s easy to get distracted with other thoughts once you start talking, try hard to stay on topic.  Going off on a tangent can result in the focus of the talk being lost.

Keep this three-point mantra in mind:
•    State what you will be covering

•    Cover it

•    Restate what you covered

Some things to avoid:
•    Don’t talk to the screen
•    Don’t stand in front of screen
•    Don’t move around too much

By following these simple guidelines, you should have no problem giving a presentation that will not only go smoothly, it will be well remembered!

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