Your presentation begins with an outline. This isn't an outline like the ones you wrote in long-ago English classes, it's a simple list.
Start by thinking about the results you want. Perhaps you're giving a presentation in order to get funding for a business, or a project. Or perhaps your boss has asked you to bring a client up to speed on a project. On a lighter note, perhaps you're the best man at a wedding, and need a short speech.
Write down the results you want, in a single sentence. Describe what you want your audience to feel, and to do, as a result of listening to your presentation.
If you need to speak for longer than five minutes, get a collection of blank 3x5 index cards. You'll create your outline from these cards.
1. If You're Using Cards, Write Down One Thought Per Card
Carry the cards around with you, and write down thoughts as they occur to you. No need to write complete sentences, if you don't want to -- just get your thoughts down, as disjointed as they may be.
2. Spread out Your Cards, So You Can See What You Have
After you've carried your cards around for a few days, spread them out on a desk, or on the floor.
Next, divide your cards into stacks: Opening, Main Speech, and Closing Words.
If you have sufficient cards, go on to the next step. If you don't, carry around the cards for a few more days. For a speech of 30 minutes, aim for 30 to 50 cards.
3. Create an Outline from Your Cards
Are your cards sorted into three stacks? Great.
Next, write an outline of your speech, using your cards.
Now fill in the outline to create a script for your speech.
4. Rehearsal Time: Use a Timer
Once your script is complete, do a rehearsal, using a timer. If your presentation is important, record your rehearsal, then listen to it next day.
If your speech is important, aim for at least five rehearsals. Ideally, you should be able to give your speech completely from memory, with the aid of several of your 3x5 cards.
Enjoy your presentation: you'll discover that using an outline helps you to speak like a pro.
