4 Ways to Nail Your Next Presentation

In 2011, I was awarded the President’s Outstanding Presenter Award at the Southern Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers for a workshop that I co-presented with Dr. Ron White. I am convinced that Dr. White won the award and I was simply along for the ride. So, Thanks Ron!

While I do not consider myself a great orator, I have discovered four things that will improve any professional presentation…

Present a topic you know well.

There are all kinds of reasons to make a presentation – it’s part of your job, no one else volunteered, you crave the spotlight, etc. Whatever your reason for considering your next presentation, you should only consider a topic about which you have significant knowledge and experience. I know, this should not have to be said. But I have lost count of the times that I’ve endured a presenter who knew little about their subject matter. If are absolutely required to present a topic that is not well-known to you, consider a knowledgable and experienced co-presenter. When my presentation flops (and we’ve all done it), it’s usually because I tackled a topic where I lacked knowledge or experience.

Present a topic that you are passionate about.

Knowledge and experience isn’t enough. Great presentations result from a speaker who is passionate about the topic. If you can’t get excited about it, let somebody else do it. Don’t waste your time or your audience’s time with a mediocre, half-hearted session. Beffore committing, ask yourself, Am I passionate about this topic? If not, pass! No one wants to listen to someone speak about something they’re not excited about. Several years ago, I made a life decision – If I’m not passionate about it, I’m not doing it! – this includes speaking opportunities.

Attend a speakers boot camp or workshop.

Several years ago, I attended a Speaker’s Boot Camp in Atlanta presented by Personality Insights. The event focused on topics such as: preparing a convincing presentation, speaking to a diverse audience, persuasion tips and techniques, etc. The event was intense! And the feedback I received from expert presenters has proved invaluable. Attending this intense training was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Practice.

I learned this the hard way – the outcome of my presentations is directly related to the amount of time that I spend practicing, rehearsing, revising, improving. Practice everything – intro, humor, gestures, pauses, presentation software. Do it all. Gather a small group together and present it to them. Ask for feedback. And listen! You will be better for it. And your audience will thank you. 

You’ll have many opportunities to speak and you’ll be great! So, what would you add to the list? What have you done to improve your presentations?