How to be a better presenter
Quicklink: Download the presentation preparation outline (pdf)
There are many ways to improve your presentation abilities. The first thing to do is realize that you should not be limited by the software you want to use. Research carried out as part of this project found that many audience members are unhappy with PowerPoint and similar slide-driven presentations. You can use the presentation preparation outline (pdf) created as part of this project in order to help you get ready for your big presentation. Its main points will be summarized below.
1) Know Your Audience
There are a number of questions a presenter must consider before approaching the audience. The most important thing is not the data that you will present, but to whom the data will be presented. Approach anyone who might have answers to the following questions, and think deeply about how your information applies to the audience. Take the following into consideration:- Who will be in the audience?
- What do they know or believe that can be built upon, or must be overcome?
- By the end of the presentation, what should the audience have learned? What should they feel? And what should they do?
2) Identify & Limit Key Messages
Many presenters go into a very deep level of detail, no matter what the length of their presentation. It is important that a presenter chooses a proper level of detail. You should give enough detail so that the audience remains interested in your topic even after you are finished presenting. This is why the number of topics considered should be limited. If people are interested in contacting you with questions after you are finished, you have likely done well. Questions are not a bad thing!
3) Prepare written evaluations
You know that feeling right after you're done with your big presentation? It feels good, right? But how did the presentation actually go? Did people really understand what you were talking about?It is very important that you measure your success as a presenter, even if your presentation is very short. The best way to do this is by using written evaluations. A sample that you can use for your presentations is available by clicking here.
4) Use software effectively
Many people think they need to use software like PowerPoint in order to have a successful presentation. In fact, this is not so. Use tools like PowerPoint to your advantage. Display images, videos, and short strings of text. Lines and lines of bullet points are difficult for people to read, so steer clear of them! Simple words on a single color background tend to work quite well. Also, don't be afraid to turn off a slide by pressing 'b' while in slideshow mode (pressing 'b' again turns it back on).Remember: You, the presenter, should be the focus, not the slides!
5) Use Notes
Many presenters are embarrassed to use notes or notecards as they present. Instead, they just put lots of facts up on slides to help them remember. Making notes and notecards that are only for your eyes makes it easier for you and the audience. Don't be afraid to use notes, they help, and allow you to simplify your slides.