This
may seem difficult for a technical presentation,
but I've talked with many technical presenters
one on one and you can feel their passion
for their topic . . . off the platform.
You
want your audience to do something as a result of your
presentation. Whatever you want them to do,
there is a better chance that they will do it if you
show that you are passionate
about your subject. An added benefit is that your
fears will dissipate when you are truly excited about
your subject matter. Speak with passion . . . and you
will inspire others.
Presenting
is an acquired skill
Many
technical presenters believe that speaking
before groups does not take any special training
or skill development. Nothing could be farther
from the truth. Effective
speakers learn how to present in the same way
in which they learn the tools needed to develop their
own technical skills.
Speaking is like any learned skill. It takes
time and practice.
Every
speaking opportunity is an opportunity to move others
to action. You can accomplish more in a 60-minute presentation
to the right group of decision-makers than you can sit
behind your desk for a year. Take advantage of this
opportunity by learning the
skills needed to make exciting technical
presentations. You'll see the difference on
the faces of your audience . . . and on your bottom
line.
Be
yourself
Many
technical presenters are introverts and
attempt to avoid speaking because they think that they
need to alter their "normal" speaking voice.
While it is true that a quiet person must raise his
or her voice when speaking to an audience, you do not
have to greatly alter your normal speaking voice on
the platform.
In
fact, to attempt a wholesale conversion of your persona
while speaking is a serious mistake. You cannot connect
with an audience without authenticity. Authenticity
is lost when you aren't yourself on the platform.
So speak conversationally. Allow your dry wit to come
through if that is truly who you are. Be yourself.
Network
with your audience before the program
Take
advantage of the time before your presentation
to mingle with your audience. Make it a point to "work
the room" - don't arrive two minutes before your
speech and leave immediately after it. Your audience
wants to meet you. Give them this opportunity.
Use
relaxation techniques before saying a word
Every
speaker experiences some anxiety
before speaking. Use the time before your presentation
to relax. Breathe deeply from your diaphragm for two
minutes. Simple exercises such as shrugging the shoulders
or tensing/releasing your body are helpful. Listening
to music in the car helps relieve pressure. Do whatever
it takes to relieve some of the anxiety that accompanies
every speech.
Use
a "keyword" outline to make your presentation
It
has been said that the last time someone read to you it
was your mother and she was trying to get you to sleep.
Instead of reading, use a "keyword" outline.
These keywords will prompt complete thoughts as you speak.
Look down at the keyword, look into the eyes of the audience
- and then speak.
Don't end with questions and answers
Most
technical presentations end with a question
and answer session. Instead, tell the
audience that you will take questions and then say,
"We will move to our closing point." After
the Q&A, tell a story that ties in to your main
theme. Or summarize
the points made during
the presentation. Conclude with a quote or call
to action. Whatever you end with, make it memorable.
SHERMAN'S
LAWS OF SPEAKING
*
Become aware of your distracting habits.
* Keep both hands free.
* Gestures should mirror your thoughts.
* Make your movements deliberate.
* Dress conservatively.
* Don't seek perfection, but naturalness.
by
Rob Sherman
