Day 8: More on Presentations

Preparation: The Key to a Relaxed, Effective Presentation

Every Girl and Boy Scout knows the motto: Be Prepared. The authors at Presenters University respond with a similar message. Preparation: The Key to a Relaxed, Effective Presentation The author (s) remind us to start from a positive position (Have you ever seen an unhappy Girl Scout?). The two realities that should guide every presenter’s philosophy: (1) The audience is waiting to see and hear you at your best and (2) The audience is in your presence because they want to listen and learn. Ultimately, they (your audience) want to be changed by what you have to communicate.

Getting Them on Your Side: Creating a Persuasive Presentation

The next step in delivering a persuasive presentation is determining how you will tailor your message to meet your objective. The authors at Presenters University identify two approaches to achieving your communication goal (s). The first approach, the deductive approach is authoritative in nature -meaning that you tell your audience what you “want them to do” and follow up with the rational for your topic/idea. The other approach, the inductive approach, requires that you present several arguments that lead your audience to your position or conclusion. The author of this text recommends that the deductive approach be the method of persuading as it is an “up-front” delivery approach that will give you a greater understanding of what your audience is feeling/thinking about your topic/idea. Remember always to keep the benefits of the changes you are proposing at the forefront of your communication so the perennial “What’s in it for me?” question is satiated early in your presentation.

Final Thoughts: Concluding Your Presentation Well

Often times the bulk of presentation’s energy is expended in the pre-planning, introduction, and the delivery of the content. The authors suggest that time be spent in planning a great conclusion as well. Telling your audience you are about to conclude offers a prelude signaling the end is near. These results (according to the author (s)) in a swelling of energy that reconnects you and your audience. A quick summary along with a reminder to act (on the information delivered) as well as a tail-end reinforcement of the benefits are excellent ways to polish your presentation.