by Gilda Bonanno
Effective presentation skills, whether for in-person
or virtual settings, are essential for success—whether you're a leader,
entrepreneur, student, or team contributor. Here are 25 ways to elevate your
skills:
2) Deliver a Clear Message: Keep your content focused and ensure all stories and data support your core message.
3) Respect Time Limits: Finish on time—your
audience will appreciate it.
4) Know Your Audience: Tailor your content to
their needs and priorities.
5) Align Body Language: Ensure gestures, posture,
and expressions match your message.
6) Smile to Connect: A genuine smile enhances
warmth and engagement (unless you're delivering difficult news).
7) Practice Thoroughly: Especially for high-stakes
presentations, practice more than you think you need.
8) Prioritize Key Sections: Focus on your opening,
transitions, and closing if your practice time is limited.
9) Practice Out Loud: Silent review of your slides
isn’t enough—speak as you will during the presentation.
10) Stay Present: Focus on your audience instead
of worrying about mistakes.
11) Breathe Deeply: Calm your nerves and think
clearly by taking steady breaths.
12) Avoid Filler Words: Speak in complete
sentences and pause naturally instead of saying "um" or
"ah."
13) Use Quality Slides: Favor visuals over
text-heavy slides to engage your audience.
For Virtual Presentations:
14) Camera at Eye Level: Position your camera to
create a natural connection with your audience.
15) Look at the Camera: Maintain "eye
contact" with the audience by focusing on the camera instead of their
video thumbnails.
16) Optimize Screen Layout: Move audience videos
near the camera for easier interaction while still making eye contact with the
audience.
17) Strategic Notes Placement: Use digital or
physical Post-its at eye level for seamless reference.
18) Ensure Good Lighting: Use lighting from behind
the camera to illuminate your face clearly.
19) Avoid Backlighting: Block window light behind
you to avoid being silhouetted.
20) Minimize Glare on Glasses: Adjust lighting
angles to reduce reflections.
21) Test Your Microphone: Ensure clear, crisp
audio for better audience understanding.
In-Person Presentation
Tips:
22) Use a Microphone: Amplify your voice for
larger audiences or big rooms.
23) Leverage the Remote Control: Use the remote so
you can move freely while advancing slides.
24) Face the Audience: If using slides, speak to
your audience, not the screen.
Bonus:
25) Exude Confidence: Trust your preparation and deliver with self-confidence.
© Gilda Bonanno LLC - Gilda Bonanno serves as a trusted advisor to executives and entrepreneurs to transform their communication, presentation and leadership skills. She has worked with companies on 4 continents, from Chicago to Shanghai and Rio to Rome. The instructional videos on her YouTube channel have received over 1.5 million views and her e-newsletter has reached subscribers in over 45 countries since 2008. For other articles or to receive Gilda's e-newsletter, visit www.gildabonanno.com