Toastmasters - UK and Ireland :: Toastmasters - UK and Ireland :: How to make better Conference Presentations
Author Forgotten User Date 23 Mar 06, 18:06 Views 2061
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Description How to make better Conference Presentations

How to make better Conference Presentations 

How to make better Conference Presentations

Improving your public speaking skills can help you in a variety of situations. This month, we've got some advice on how to make a better presentation to a large audience, or conference.

Most people learn to make presentations in front of relatively small groups of people. When it comes to presenting yourself, your ideas or your business to an audience of hundreds at a conference, panic can set in. However, by giving yourself plenty of time to plan how and what you're going to say and by doing some simple research, you can be sure of making a great impact.

As soon as you've made the decision to speak, decide on the topic for your presentation. It should be one in which you have some expertise, to give you the confidence you need to speak about it. It should also be consistent with the theme of the conference. Outline the key benefits to the audience, as this will help you focus and help the conference organisers promote the event.

Next do some research by getting the answers to some important questions. What time will your session be and how long will it last? Are you expected to take your own handouts, or will the organisers provide them for you? In which case, in what format should you provide them? How many people are expected to attend and who are they? How will the room be set up? When can you have access to the room? Will they provide the equipment you need, or should you take your own? The more information you can get, the better prepared you'll be.

Give yourself plenty of time to prepare you presentation and practice it. If it doesn't feel right, you'll need enough time to improve it, without having to rush it the night before the conference. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare some really good slides that complement what you're going to say. Prepare your handouts, to give delegates even more value from attending your presentation.

Before you leave for the conference, make sure you have back up copies of your presentation, so you know your files are safe if you have problems with your equipment.

When you get there, check that you're happy with the layout of the room and that all the equipment you need is there and working. Try to attend some other sessions at the conference, to make sure you don't duplicate what's already been said. This will also give you the opportunity to find out more about your audience.

After making your perfect presentation, make a note of questions you were asked, as this is good material for your next presentation. If you promised to get in touch with anyone - to provide extra information or contacts - make sure you get their contact details and then do what you promised. This will make you stand out from many presenters who never keep in touch with people they meet.

Making a really great presentation at a conference needn't be daunting. Plan ahead, do your research and you'll be able to make a great presentation and a great impact.