Issues to be considered include:
Logistics
Your audience - tailor your presentation time, material and resources to suit the audience and make sure they know the venue and starting time
The Venue – check size, location and that the room is set up with the right equipment. Have a test run
Multimedia equipment – make sure you have the right equipment, it is compatible with your presentation material and suitable for the size of the audience. Practice to make sure it works and to build confidence
Refreshments – arrange for appropriate refreshments
Your presentation
Don’t talk for too long – 20 minutes maximum is a good rule of thumb. Be clear about what you want to achieve and leave plenty of time to prepare and rehearse.
Good presentations have:
- recognisable, key points
- logical structure with an introduction, middle and conclusion
- a lively, attention-grabbing opening
- tone and content tailored to the audience
- plenty of examples
- positive rather than negative statements
Be cautious about using humour – it may not transfer from one country to another. Avoid colloquialisms and jargon.
Making your presentation
Body language – relax, smile and make sure your body language is warm and inviting
Interpreters/Translations – have support material translated where appropriate. If using an interpreter, go through the presentation with them in advance. Interpreters will need twice the amount of delivery time
Questions – prepare for potentially difficult questions and have comments ready in case there are none
Multi-Media/Props – use slides and overheads sparingly, include photographs and illustrations and proof read support material
Hand-out material – ensure it is professional and give it out at the end
