More Presentation Tips

Some presentation tips from Ian McKenzie - The Do’s and Don’ts of Practicing and Delivering Your Speech

Do…

• go to the room where you will give your presentation to get a feel for the set-up.
• practice in front of a friend or friends without stopping, just as you will want to give your presentation on speech day.
• practice in front of a mirror (full length if possible).
• practice using your visuals so you know how much time they will take up and how to incorporate them into your speech.
• practice with background noise (ie.- turn on the tv, radio, etc.) in order to practice with distractions.
• practice with the actual speaking outline you will use in your presentation.
• practice your speech dressed as you plan to be for your actual presentation so that you can feel comfortable and ready to speak.
• time yourself. Make sure you are consistently within your time frame.
• video tape yourself if possible. This is the best way for you to see what needs to be adjusted before you give your presentation.
• be aware of your posture and mannerisms. If you are going to use movement on speech day—you need to practice; keep it controlled and natural.
• eliminate distracting mannerisms such as playing with jewelry, tucking hair behind your ear, playing with a pen, etc. You can eliminate such mannerisms if you are aware of them.

Don’t…

• keep change or keys in your pockets. You don’t want the sound of objects distracting from your presentation
• wear a hat, unless it is part of your presentation. Dress appropriately any time you give a presentation. Make a credible first impression by looking like you there to give a good speech.
• use distracting mannerisms. This includes nervous habits you have (i.e. playing with a ring or necklace, tucking hair behind your ear, playing with a pen, etc.). These are actions you can easily avoid doing if you are aware of them.
• stand with your arms crossed or your hands in your pockets. This type of posture prevents you from gesturing and may even make your audience uncomfortable.
• apologize if you make a mistake; correct the mistake and move on. Chances are most people will miss it anyway.
• make faces when you make a mistake it is better to just keep going.
• put visual aids up in front of the class before you explain them. Introduce them as you are speaking. Take the visuals away after you are done with them. Put cues on your outline to remind you.
• hold your outline while practicing your speech. Put your outline on something: a music stand; a box; a counter, anything to simulate the lectern.