Tips for a Good Presentation (Part 4 of 6)

Part 4: Delivering

This is the fourth part in a six part series on good presentation tips. Part 1 can be found here, Part 2 here and Part 3 here.

This is one of the issues that most people struggle with, and that’s generally due to nerves. For some bizarre reason, most of us are terrified of public speaking, and this interferes with our performance. Many people will be disappointed to know that the best solution to this is practise and experience.

While there are a few well known tips out there for calming yourself, not all of them work for everyone (I don’t find a room full of naked people helpful, to be honest). A good approach to calming your nerves includes:

• Rehearse in front of others or a mirror (if necessary), out loud and without your notes or slides.

• Get a good night’s sleep.

• Get to your venue in plenty of time; don’t be rushed.

• Remember that most people hate public speaking too; you often have their sympathy if you stuff up.

• Don’t rush your presentation; be clear, be calm and be in control.

Some people develop nervous habits while presenting, which are often distracting to your audience. Be aware of your body language and what you are doing with your hands and feet while talking. A good video on body language (as well as general tips) during presentations is below.

Remember: Be prepared and practise your presentation. The next part in the series, Part 5: Group Presentations, will be posted sometime in the next week.

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