4 Tips to Ace Your Next Presentation

The only thing worse than public speaking is bombing it. So, you have three choices when it comes to public speaking:

1. Avoid it at all costs (staying safe but unknown).
2. Do it miserably (and be known for this).
3. Master your presentation (and enjoy the benefits that accompany your success).

Public speaking is essential for business and social life. Since 75% of Americans fear it, those who master it stand out as more confident, self-assured, and yes…more promotable. Watch this funny video for a quick laugh.

While this video makes light of a serious fear, it also shows you that the worst outcomes you imagine from speaking in public are not real and will not happen. The worst things we fear mentally rarely ever occur in reality.

Like any other task, you build skill, stamina, and confidence through practice and repetition. Hollywood actors command crazy paychecks because they memorize and rehearse their lines, gestures, and facial expressions until it becomes second nature. Here are 4 tips to build your confidence and help you become a polished public speaker:

1. Do your homework.

The more you study for a test, the better your chances are of getting a good grade. Likewise, the better you study, rehearse, and practice your presentation the better you will do. As you practice, visualize the audience listening in rapt attention and giving you thunderous applause at the end.

These techniques do build your confidence. The more confident you feel, the better you will come across to your audience. Read this whitepaper that provides terrific tips to prepare for your next presentation:

Your Path to Perfect: Guide to Rehearsing a Presentation

2. Rehearse in Different Settings.

Practice speaking in different settings because you may be called upon to speak in a meeting, speak on stage, or be asked your opinion in an impromptu meeting in the lunchroom. Because of virtual meetings, you also need to practice presenting virtually.

If you practice speaking in many places you will be ready to speak at a moment’s notice. When you are drifting off to sleep or find yourself stuck in traffic, run through your presentation silently or aloud. Top athletes excel because they always practice every detail in their mind before they play.

3. Look and sound great.

Equally important as knowing your material is how you present it. It is imperative to appear confident, calm, and collected (even if your insides are in knots or filled with butterflies!).Since 93% of communications is non-verbal, the way you dress, act, and speak are vital.

Practice in front of a mirror and watch your posture and composure. Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting with your hands, and looking down at the ground. Avoid using filler words such as um, ah, like, well, you know, and ah. If you need to pause to collect your thoughts simply stop speaking or take a drink of water.

Here’s a super effective video to help you practice better:

4. Accept Feedback.

Practice in front of a loved one, friend, or colleague. We can think we do a fantastic job at presenting but when someone else we trust observes us presenting, we will hear genuine feedback to help us correct the things we are unaware of or miss.

Follow these 4 keys to acing your next presentation. See how well you are received and how much better you feel about yourself!

Did you miss our previous posts about speaking this month?

3 Keys to Captivating Your Audience
Spring into Action: March Public Speaking Essentials