Are you a problem presenter? Learn how to avoid these common mistakes.
The one thing that leaves most people white-knuckled is the idea of speaking in public. In fact, more people say they're afraid of public speaking than say they're afraid of death! But ask top entrepreneurs what has helped propel them and their businesses to the forefront, and they'll tell you their ability to motivate groups of people has been instrumental in their success.
As an entrepreneur, you'll have many opportunities to build your business by addressing groups, whether in sales presentations, seminars or talks before members of your community. A successful presentation depends on three factors: content, structure and style. Once you learn to create solid presentations, you may actually look forward to speaking in public.

When planning a presentation, start by considering what your audience wishes to gain from your talk. Then create a speech that presents relevant facts and reasonable solutions. Structure your presentation so it flows logically, and incorporate visuals to add interest. Leave time for questions and audience interaction to build rapport and demonstrate your expertise.

Typically, content and structure are less of a problem for presenters than is the issue of style. Choose presentation tools that are appropriate to the venue and help you shine. You can produce an eye-catching and comprehensive multimedia presentation using a presentation graphics package, such as Microsoft Powerpoint, in combination with a computer and a projector or monitor. These programs allow you to incorporate bulleted points, images, and audio and video clips. But no matter whether you use the latest high-tech equipment or a simple pointer with flip charts, make sure your presentation is visually appealing and never dull. Your materials are your violin--and you'll be judged by how well you play.

Most important, keep your presentation free of negative behavior. Eliminate anything that detracts from communicating solid, benefit-oriented information in an engaging format.

Over the years, I've worked with many problem presenters. Here are just a few of the most common types. See if you can spot a problem you need to work on.

The Slow Talker speaks at an unnaturally halting rate that makes the audience want to jump out of their seats with impatience.

The Low Talker speaks quietly, generally with eyes cast down. This awkward shyness eventually makes the audience so uncomfortable, they forget what's being said and concentrate on the speaker's embarrassment instead.

The Double Talker presents few substantiated facts and tends to over-promise. His or her proposals sound too good to be true.

The Droner just doesn't know when to stop. The presentation goes on endlessly, with no respect for the audience's time.

The Techie presents too many details and little bottom-line content. Techies often get bogged down with charts and graphs that are difficult to read and understand.

The Stiff stands behind the podium with hands folded, reading from a script, making few if any gestures, and simply bores the audience to death.

The Apologizer destroys his or her credibility by making excuses, often right at the outset, which can sabotage the entire presentation.

The Twitcher is a nervous presenter who may repeatedly grin, grimace or make other repetitious motions, such as pointing a finger in the air for emphasis or swaying from one foot to the other.

The Show-off gives more glitz than substance, offering few relevant facts or solutions.

The best presenter is the one I call the Straight Shooter. He or she makes eye contact with the audience, uses natural body movement, and may even move around the room instead of standing stiffly in one spot. The Straight Shooter uses direct language so everything is understandable and clear.

To eliminate negative behaviors from your own presentations, set up a videocamera and tape a rehearsal or two. Watch the tape critically. Some of the most common negative behaviors are the easiest to spot, so with just a bit of practice, you can smooth out the rough edges and create a presentation style you'll be proud of.

By Kim T. Gordon

Presentation Training - Speak With Clarity

Presentation Training Quote
"Obstacles are those frightful things we see when we
take our eyes off our goals."
Henry Ford

Suggested Reading:
Effective Presentation Skills : A Practical Guide for Better Speaking
by Steve Mandel

How to Run Seminars and Workshops : Presentation Skills for Consultants, Trainers, and Teachers
by Robert L. Jolles

Enhancing Your Presentation Skills
by Till K. Kahrs

High-Impact Presentation & Training Skills (Contemporary Legal Education Series)
by William Hendricks

Powerful Presentation Skills
by Elmon E. Yoder, Inc. National Press Publications

Developing Presentation Skills: A Guide for Effective Instruction
by Kathleen Schmalz, Arlene Moliterno

Powerful Presentation Skills: Develop the Confidence and Skill to Make Effective Presentations (National Seminars Group Audio Series)
by Neil Poindexter

Presentation Skills Training: 30 High-Involvement Training Designs
by Wendy Denham, Elizabeth Sansom

SpeakEasy!: Oral Presentation Skills in English for Academic and Professional Use, includes CD-ROM
by Monica Hill

Presentation Skills: The McGraw-Hill One Day Workshop
by Phil Lowe

Writing an Assignment: Effective Ways to Improve Your Research and Presentation Skills
by Pauline Smith