Presentation Skills
As we have explored the facets of speaking clearly and with a message, and been learning the best methods for effective listening and the importance of our attitude, maybe this is the time to kind of put it all together.
We have all seen YouTube “stars” and how social media allows pretty much anyone with a message of some sort to be “famous.” Does that sound about right? A little bit of confidence and moxie can go a long way to getting your point across. But to do that professionally is even more important.
Dale Carnegie said it best: There are always three speeches for every one you actually give—the one you prepared, the one you gave, and the one you wish you gave.
It’s funny. Most audiences have a single objective: to get out of the room. And even more funny, most presenters have a single objective: to get off the stage. So, how can you engage the room so that the audiences WANT to hear what you say AND you have a great time delivering your presentation?
So, have you prepared? Do you know exactly what you want to say? Do you know what message you want to get across to everyone? Have you practiced reading/giving your speech? All these are of vital importance. In order for you to sound like a professional (or at least know what you’re talking about), you must prepare. Actually, sometimes preparing can be as much fun as actually giving the speech! It lets you be free to try certain voice inflections and gestures to make a point. Raising and lowering your voice, even moving a little on stage, all help in giving the best speech possible.
This way, when you go out on stage, you don’t have to worry because you have done your homework and practiced and are completely comfortable. Worried about the crowd size? Don’t be. If it helps, just imagine you’re speaking to one or two people. That can sometimes take off the “edge” if you are feeling a little nervous.
Will you be taking questions from the audience? Using any kind of visual aids? Slides, etc.? Walk the room beforehand if you can and gauge the feeling and sight lines for yourself. How’s the room temperature? Too hot or cold is not good. Are you planning any jokes or humour in your speech? Always be careful and try to know and understand your audience.
Speaking in public is the number one fear of most people. Are we that afraid of failing and thinking we will be judged too harshly? Maybe. But you know what? We are going to be judged either way! And though it is hard to not hear the critics, not all criticism is bad. Most people want you to do well and see you succeed. The ones that don’t probably are jealous because you have the intestinal fortitude to do something “risky” and possibly out of your comfort zone. Pay them no mind.
Stick to your guns and enjoy the process. Remember, preparation is the key for any public speaking gig. Once you know what you want to say and how you want to say it, just go for it and have fun. It is a skill to learn and, like riding a bike, the more you do it, the better you will become. Take it from someone who knows!
Kevin Martin
Executive Director Kindersley’s Chamber of Commerce
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