In order to be a powerful, engaging and effective presenter,
you have to be yourself.
First of all, you
have been asked to give this presentation for a reason, maybe because of your
subject matter expertise or because the audience already knows you and trusts
you. Maybe it is because nobody else would do it; you were the person who
wasn’t there at the meeting, so you got volunteered (that’s okay – it
happens. Take advantage of the
opportunity).
Whatever the reason
you’ve been asked to present, take advantage of the opportunity to communicate
with the audience
Be confident in who
you are. You have to believe that you
have something worth saying that is worth listening to. Unless you believe that,
the audience will never believe you.
Get over your fear
and get comfortable with yourself. That
confidence will help you connect with the audience and be a more powerful
speaker.
And while it is
fine to watch and learn from other speakers, be careful not to imitate anyone
completely. It is like wearing somebody
else’s clothes. The outfit may look great on the other person, but once you put
it on, you find it ill-fitting and uncomfortable. Tailor anything you learn from others to fit
your distinctive style and personality.
Tap into your own
unique skills and abilities when you are presenting. Leverage your knowledge
and experience. Use any examples that
you think might be meaningful, particularly examples that are “uniquely you.”
The audience will
appreciate you being your best, most sincere self, when you give your
presentation.
by Gilda Bonanno www.gildabonanno.com
Gilda Bonanno's blog www.gildabonanno.blogspot.com