We all
know that enthusiasm and knowledge are two integral aspects of a successful
business presentation; however, many business professionals get a bit nervous
when it comes to public speaking.
What's interesting is this:
Research has shown that most audiences cannot determine whether a speaker is even
nervous during a business presentation.
When giving a presentation, you
should immediately display your knowledge for the subject matter as it will go
a long way in getting the attention of your audience - and help overcome any
fear or nervousness of public speaking.
6 Tips To Overcome
Your Fears (And Nervousness) Of A Business Presentation.
To combat any nervousness and
fear of a presentation, consider the following tips:
Tip #1: Be A Topic Expert - With adequate research and preparation,
you can become a topic expert on the subject of your presentation. This will
instill in you the confidence you need to lead and advise your team on the
subject matter. Thorough topic knowledge will engage and impress an audience;
take the time to memorize a few key facts and figures and consider providing
metrics in the form of handouts.
Tip #2: Provide Clean
Copy - When
you use visual presentation aids such as Microsoft Power Point, remember that
your presented copy and graphics are there to help the audience understand your
presentation. Too many words on the screen will detract from your presentation;
therefore, ensure each slide contains a short list of bullet points instead of
long sentences and/or paragraphs. Your role is to edify each bullet point topic
and provide necessary information as you go. If you are dealing with a large
amount of information, be sure to explain that provided handouts are for later
review so the audience remains focused.
Tip #3: Anticipate And
Control Your Q&A - When
you take questions following your presentation, it is possible that an audience
member will ask you about something irrelevant or something that requires more
research, knowledge or follow-up on your part. If this occurs, let the person
who asked the question know that you will follow up with an answer later.
Tip #4: Take It Slow - When nervous, you may talk too quickly or
miss important items. If you speak too fast, your audience may also miss
important information you wish to communicate. In your personal presentation
notes, provide organized aides such as [pause] notifications or 'stop signs' to
remind yourself to pause, assess audience response and take a breath.
Tip #5: Walk Around The
Room If Possible - If you
are delivering your presentation in a casual setting, consider walking around
the room to further engage your audience. This movement can help you get rid of
your nervous energy and can enhance both your authority and the appearance of a
more relaxed setting.
Tip #6: Pass Out A
Handout BEFORE Your Presentation: If you
want to keep your audience engaged, especially if you are conducting a training
exercise, pass out your presentation before getting started. Here is the key:
Don't provide them with all the key data points; have them write it in on their
personal copies. Do this, and your audience will remember more of your
presentation and help you become more engaged with the audience.
Executive
Summary: While topic knowledge,
preparation and enthusiasm are key parts of a quality business presentation,
your ability to speak comfortably in front of an audience also requires effort.
With a bit of attention to your public speaking tactics, you can offer a clear,
concise and effective business presentation on any topic of your expertise.
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