1. What are your top three points? Taking time to consider what are the main points you want to reinforce throughout the presentation, allows for a more structured, and focused presentation. Many presenters adhere to the "rule of three" - focusing on delivering 3 main points, with reinforcement 3 times throughout the presentation.
What are the three main points of your presentation?
2. Recognize the three main parts of the presentation - The start, middle and end. The start of a presentation or "opener" usually takes about 5-10% of the time available. In this section you want to let people know about where you are going - the three main points.
In the body of the presentation we want to expand upon our three main areas. We want to provide a deeper dive into the topic area.
The close of the presentation should include a summary of what you have discussed, and get people thinking about next steps. This should also take approximately 5-10% of your presentation time.
What will your open, body and close look like?
3. Connect people early on to their WIIFM - What's In It For Me? We have limited time, and one time, to make a first impression, but also to connect people to why this topic is important to them. Asking people a question along the lines of "What's your biggest opportunity in this area?" or "What is your biggest stretch as it relates to x right now" can help get people engaged in the conversation. Consider how y ou will get people to connect with their WIIFM in the opening, as well as in the body, and the close of the presentation.
How will you connect people with their WIIFM?
4. Change the pace - Keeping presentations moving is critical in great presentations. This can involve pace changes as well. Consider how you can switch things up with breakouts, reflection questions, or hands on activities during your presentation. A good rule of thumb is to consider changing pace every 7-10 minutes in a face-to-face presentation, or more frequently in a virtual one.
What approaches will you use to change your pace?
5. Prepare, practice, practice - Taking some time to prepare for important presentations and then practice, practice, practice can help you with your own confidence, as well as ensuring the flow of a conversation. Speak the presentation out loud rather than just reading it. If you can, also get feedback after the event on what worked well, and what adjustments could be made for future presentations of the same type.
What will you do to prepare? To practice before the event? To get feedback and further adjust your skills?
Best wishes,
Jennifer
Potentials Realized | Coaching Team Leaders
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My newest book - Effective Virtual Conversations - covers dozens of tips and best practices for making virtual presentations and other events even more effective and engaging!