How to Make or Give a Presentation
When called upon to give a presentation at work or school or for a community event, begin preparing immediately. Find out whether your supervisor or host has a particular topic in mind, where the presentation will occur, and the expected audience size and makeup. Narrow the topic to a focus that is suitable for your intended audience. If your focus is too basic, audience members may get bored. If it is overly technical, they might get confused. Find out, too, whether you are responsible for promoting the presentation.
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Instructions
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Choose a topic for your presentation, and research the topic. Create an outline of your speech that includes an introduction, a body and a conclusion. State the purpose of your presentation and the approach you will use to cover the topic in your introduction. Organize the body of the speech into three to five main parts. Depending on the topic, you might use a chronological sequence, a series of related ideas, or a cause-and-effect organizational structure. Briefly restate each of the key points in your conclusion. If the purpose of your speech is to persuade, include a specific call to action in the conclusion.
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Create visual aids, such as PowerPoint slides, charts and images to accompany your speech. Note on your speech outline the places where you will introduce visual aids. Practice your presentation. Ask a colleague to critique or videotape your rehearsal to see areas it can be improved. Avoid repetitious hand gestures and phrases. With a small audience, consider answering questions throughout the speech rather than in a question-and-answer period afterward.
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Prepare handouts for your audience. Include copies of your PowerPoint slides and visual aids so audience members can follow your presentation. Add references they can research for more information, as well your contact information. If you are responsible for promoting the event, prepare and distribute posters, press releases and invitations to your intended audience.
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Check the location of your presentation in advance. If you are using technology resources in the room, examine them to make sure they are working. Find out whether you need to reserve the room or any technology services such as a computer, large screen or laser pointer. Examine the microphone system so you will know whether you need to stay close to the podium or can move around during your speech.
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Dress professionally for your presentation. Arrive early so that you can meet guests. If you are nervous, take a deep breath before you speak. Keep a bottle of water handy. Pace yourself so that you don't talk too fast. Let your audience know whether they can ask questions during the speech or afterward. Be prepared to visit with audience members after the presentation and take down your visual aids.
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References
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