Handout from Ethan Rotman's presentation at the July 2013 Bay Area Consultants Network (BACN) meeting, containing his 8 "tricks" for a great presentation, such as "create a clear message" and "make your audience comfortable."

1. Eight “Tricks” To A Great Presentation
Speaking Tip 93
Good presentations do not happen and excellent presenters are not born. A good presentation is one that is
carefully crafted and an excellent presenter is one that hones her skills and uses her tools appropriately.
Here are tricks you can incorporate to make your presentations a success.
1. Create a clear message - Know what you want your audience to know and do when you are through
speaking.
2. Develop good visuals - Create visual aids that are interesting, clear, and to the point. Audiences often
miss the message when visual aids (PowerPoint in particular) are poorly designed.
3. Know your audience
Research the group before you arrive. Take time to meet individuals before you speak. During the talk,
pay attention to the energy of the audience.
4. Allow for adequate time to prepare
Preparation is critical if you are to deliver a credible and moving presentation. Create an outline, good
visuals, practice; and know how to use your equipment. The first time you deliver a talk should not be in
front of a “live” audience.
5. Make your audience comfortable
Audiences that are uncomfortable in their chairs, hungry, thirsty, in need of a break, or in a room with
poor temperature control, will have a difficult time paying attention.
6. Set up the room to meet your needs
Arrange the seats, tables, lectern and the screen so it works for you and your audience.
7. Present yourself appropriately
The audience will judge you based on your dress, language you use, and your level of organization.
Watch your use of “French”, jargon and technical terms.
8. Evaluate your work
Check your success based on the goals you set in the first step. Revise your presentation to improve
your presentation skills.
In truth, these are not “tricks” at all; these are steps you can take if you want to present well. Yes, it takes
time to create and deliver a presentation that is memorable, a good speaker works to engage and motivate
their audience – but is worth the effort.
iSpeakEASY helps people present information in an exciting and relevant manner. Visit us at www.iSpeakEASY.net or
www.iSpeakEASYblog.wordpress.com. Contact us for information on individual coaching or group workshops.
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