In a previous article we discussed how public speaking can benefit your business. Here are some tips to help you become a more powerful presenter.
The more you speak in public, the better you will become. Consider joining a local Toastmasters group. You will learn effective styles to deliver presentations that are persuasive, informative, humorous or spontaneous. Toastmasters is a safe and friendly environment where you can really develop your speaking skills.
For the next 10 days, videotape yourself presenting for three minutes each day. Select different topics and imagine yourself presenting to a large group. Watch the video and find areas to improve. Common mistakes to look for are fidgeting with your hands, nervous pacing or using words like “um” and “ah” as a transition between your thoughts.
Begin preparing your presentation with one thought in mind. What exactly do you want the audience to do as a result of your presentation? What action will they take? What behavior will they change? This will become the main goal of your presentation, and you will build your entire presentation around that goal.
When you begin your presentation, do not start with something predictable like “thank you for coming” or “my name is …” Instead, start with a joke, a story or an interesting fact that has something to do with your topic. Capture their attention right away.
Explain to the audience why this topic is so important to you. If they can relate to your passion about the topic, they will listen to you. Allow your voice to carry that passion throughout the presentation.
Silence can be your best friend during a presentation. A brief pause will re-engage the audience and make them wonder what is coming next. Silence can also be a great tool if you lose your place and need to gather your thoughts.
Invest some time improving your presentation skills and your business will thank you.
