A prop can greatly enhance your presentation. Verbal arguments aren’t enough to convince people of your message. Add a visual – a chart or cartoon. Verbal props come in several forms: quotations from famous people, anecdotes, plays, poems or even questions. I was faced with a critical meeting to defend myself against serious charges from our auditors. My defense included a quote, a cartoon and a parable.
You can expect your audience to have questions about your presentation. That indicates interest in your presentation message.
When you answer questions from the audience, that allows you to engage them and reinforce your message. The question-and-answer session can convey your confidence, reveal your depth of knowledge and enhance the rapport between you and your audience – if you handle it well.
When it’s your turn to speak don’t try to think on your feet. It’s too dangerous. When you try to wing it you leave too much to chance. You might be sharp today. Or, you might be ill or even in a foul mood. Thinking on your feet is experimenting with your audience. Don’t gamble the success of your presentation on the throw of the dice.
When you present before an audience you must be aware of the difference between the Ancient Laws and the Modern Laws of answering questions. Get this right and save yourself grief while delivering more effective presentations.
Your close although short is a significant part of your speech. Be clear on the purpose of your speech and be clear on how your close supports that purpose. Your last words might be remembered the most. No matter how badly you think your presentation went always end it looking and sounding confidently.
When you need to write a presentation, follow these seven steps to create your outline. Organize your message and structure before you start stuffing in content.
This CEO didn’t know how to end his presentation. That was curious because as the head of an advertising firm he stressed the importance of telling stories. He emphasized the need to sculpt three components to your stories; opening, body and close. But he didn’t do that with his presentation. Both his opening and close were disasters. I wonder if he delivers a better close when pitching to prospects.
Everyone who wants to get better at public speaking and presentations will benefit from George’s coaching.
Your Intended Message is the podcast about how we communicate, the mistakes we make and how we might communicate better.
Should you start your presentation with a joke? If not, what is a better way to start your presentation or speech and be funny without offending the audience?
