Presentations are nerve-wracking, FACT! However as long as you’re well prepared there’s no reason to worry. Think about our suggestions below, but above all practice, practice, practice.
KNOW YOUR VENUE
(This affects everything, from how loud you speak to whether you can use that fancy slide show!)
KNOW YOUR KEY MESSAGE
Can you sum up what you want to say in one sentence? If not you could either be over complicating things or just over-complicated! What information do you need to provide to support this message? (This will make up the content of your presentation and should be structured so that it flows).
KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
You know what you want to say, but do you know what your audience wants to hear? Don’t assume too much and don’t alter your message, but think of how you can deliver your presentation to suit your targets!
KNOW YOUR TIME SLOT
Time yourself when you’re practising, but remember events on the day (interruptions/speaking faster) could impact on this. If possible make sure you can see the time, but don’t panic if you’re in front of, or behind, schedule. Also remember to allow time for questions at the end.
KNOW YOUR FACTS
Whoever your audience is, they’re likely to ask questions. Make sure you can back-up every point you make in your presentation and be prepared. Make a list of what questions they might ask and make sure you can answer them.