public speaking and presentation skills ppt

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What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation

• Carmine Gallo

Five tips to set yourself apart.

Never underestimate the power of great communication. It can help you land the job of your dreams, attract investors to back your idea, or elevate your stature within your organization. But while there are plenty of good speakers in the world, you can set yourself apart out by being the person who can deliver something great over and over. Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired together are more memorable); don’t underestimate the power of your voice (raise and lower it for emphasis); give your audience something extra (unexpected moments will grab their attention); rehearse (the best speakers are the best because they practice — a lot).

I was sitting across the table from a Silicon Valley CEO who had pioneered a technology that touches many of our lives — the flash memory that stores data on smartphones, digital cameras, and computers. He was a frequent guest on CNBC and had been delivering business presentations for at least 20 years before we met. And yet, the CEO wanted to sharpen his public speaking skills.

• Carmine Gallo is a Harvard University instructor, keynote speaker, and author of 10 books translated into 40 languages. Gallo is the author of The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World’s Greatest Salesman  (St. Martin’s Press).

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Course Resources

Powerpoints.

A full set of PowerPoint decks is provided for download below. All decks are tightly aligned to the modules in this course. Since they are openly licensed, you are welcome to retain, reuse, revise, remix, and redistribute as desired.

These PowerPoint files are accessible. If you do revise them, make sure to follow these  guidelines for creating accessible PowerPoints .

Use the following links to download the PowerPoint decks:

Module 1: Intro to Public Speaking.pptx Module 2: Ethics.pptx Module 3: Listening and Responding.pptx Module 4: Considering the Audience.pptx Module 5: Topic and Research.pptx Module 6: Organizing and Outlining.pptx Module 7: Refining your Speech.pptx Module 8: Delivering your Speech.pptx Module 9: Informative Speaking.pptx Module 10: Persuasive Speaking.pptx Module 11: Special Occasion Speeches.pptx Module 12: Public Speaking Online.pptx Module 13: Public Speaking on the Job.pptx Module 14: Small Groups.pptx Module 15: Presentation Aids.pptx

• PowerPoints. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
• Projector Screen. Authored by : Denis Shumaylov. Provided by : Noun Project. Located at : https://thenounproject.com/term/projector-screen/1211212/ . License : CC BY: Attribution

How to make a great presentation

Stressed about an upcoming presentation? These talks are full of helpful tips on how to get up in front of an audience and make a lasting impression.

The secret structure of great talks

The beauty of data visualization

TED's secret to great public speaking

How to speak so that people want to listen

How great leaders inspire action

Home Blog Presentation Ideas How to Become Great in Public Speaking: Presenting Best Practices

How to Become Great in Public Speaking: Presenting Best Practices

As the popular lore tells: you can talk your way into success. Indeed, great public speakers often hold top corporate positions, lead the nations, and rally others to take joint action. But what if talking isn’t your forte, especially when it comes to doing so in front of large audiences? In that case, you’ll benefit a lot from the public speaking tips and tricks we showcase in this post! 

What is Public Speaking? 

In the simplest terms, public speaking is the art of effective oral communication with one person or many. We talk to the public anytime we engage in a discussion with someone else.  

Everyone knows how to communicate with others and do so in front of bigger groups e.g. at work. Far fewer, feel confident with delivering persuasive speeches or doing public presentations at conferences, virtual events, or even in the boardroom full of important stakeholders. 

But we also know how great public speakers look and act. They are confident and inspiring, can “plant” ideas into other’s heads, and inspire action. 

The Benefits of Public Speaking 

Being a great public speaker gives you several major advantages in personal and professional areas: 

• Higher level of verbal and nonverbal communication skills
• Better critical thinking and analysis abilities
• Leeway into leadership positions 
• Personal brand development
• More productive networking 

Ultimately, being good at public speaking helps you get more comfortable in group settings and draw the spotlight towards yourself. Talented public speakers can connect better with new people through charismatic presentations and persuasive talks. This, in turn, opens up an array of new opportunities — be it making more friends or raising funds for your project.

Different Types of Public Speaking 

As mentioned already, public speaking refers both to our day-day two-way exchanges with others and public presentations to an audience. 

In the case of the latter, public speeches can be classified as: 

Extemporaneous speeches

Pre-written speeches and practiced ahead of time. Usually, a speaker will rely on aids such as notes, presentation slides, or an outline when delivering the speech. Example : Conference talks. 

Impromptu speeches

Spur of the moment speeches, delivered without any preparation, agenda, or notes. Since you are caught off guard, delivering such a speech can be pretty challenging unless you are already good at speaking in public. Example : being asked to speak up during a customer meeting.

Manuscript speeches

Word-by-word delivery of a pre-written script, usually displayed on a screen/teleprompter. In essence, you are reading your speech rather than presenting it. Example : Officials addressing the nation. 

Memorized speeches

You deliver a prepared speech from memory without any aids. Such speaking can feel gut-wrenching if you are afraid to forget your lines and don’t feel confident improvising. Careful preparation is needed. Example : Ted talks or live product presentations. 

The Fear of Public Speaking 

Despite the fact that most of us love chatting, far fewer feel comfortable talking in front of larger audiences. In fact, 75% of Americans have some level of public speaking anxiety. Many also feel frantic about going on the stage. 

The fear of public speaking is called glossophobia. It’s a recognized psychological condition with symptoms such as: 

• Accelerated heart rate
• Dizziness and lightheadedness 

So what makes us terrified of public speaking? 

Physiologists say that the above reactions are our body’s natural response to threatening situations. Our nervous system enters a hyperarousal state, activating the sense of fear. This sabotages our performance on stage. 

But what prompts us to treat public speaking as a threatening situation? Researchers found that humans perceive prolonged eye watching as an existential threat. Back in the old days, observations from a hostile tribe were a strong sign of upcoming trouble. So did a watchful eye of a predatory animal. 

This “memory” still remains imprinted subconsciously in our brain today. Thus, when we go on stage to deliver a public speech, our brain first registers the gazing audience as a threat. The brain goes into the “fight or flee” mode, prompting a reaction similar to the one we experience when facing actual danger. Most public speaking tips are aimed at helping us cope with this reaction and develop a more relaxed response to being observed. 

Also, some of us tend to get extra jittery before public speaking due to anxiety sensitivity — the fear of fear. Apart from being scared of public speaking as an act, some of us also feel stressed about how their anxiety will interfere with performing well. This leads to a cascading effect of paralysis. 

But as Dalel Carnegie wrote in the “ Art of Public Speaking, 13th Edition ” : “ If you believe you will fail, there is no hope for you. You will.”

A strong mindset is the key to taming your fear of public speaking. If regular calming exercises don’t help, try attending public speaking classes or taking individual coaching sessions. An experienced mentor can help you learn to cope with anxiety, hone your public speaking skills, and develop better confidence in front of groups. 

How to Be a Better Public Speaker: 6 Tips 

Confidence is also crucial. Whenever we are uncertain of our abilities to do good, we feel uncomfortable. So practice public talks, and practice a lot. In the words of Dale Carnegie, 

“Practice in speaking before an audience will tend to remove all fear of audiences, just as practice in swimming will lead to confidence and facility in the water. You must learn to speak by speaking.”

So, how to be a great presenter and improve your public speaking skills? Below are six research-backed public speaking techniques you should employ the next time you are preparing to deliver a speech! 

1. Nail Your Opening

The presenter’s anxiety is at highest during the first 30-60 seconds of the speaking. Once you get past that, you’ll hail more confidently through the rest of your speech. 

Hence, make sure to get a positive response from your audience from the get-go. Here are some ideas for starting a public speech: 

• Begin with the ending: use BLUF technique — bottom line upfront 
• Share a personal story to build empathy 
• Ask a rhetorical question to make the audience think 
• Provide a quote that sets the tone for your narrative 
• Project into the future to get the audience focused on outcomes 
• Use some humor to squeeze out some laughs and relax yourself 

Read more about how to start a presentation and which slides to use. 

2. Maintain Eye Contact with the Audience 

Simon Sinek, the most-viewed presenter on TED, offers this piece of advice : 

“Look at specific audience members throughout your speech. If you can, give each person that you intently look at an entire sentence or thought, without breaking your gaze. When you finish a sentence, move on to another person and keep connecting with individual people until you’re done speaking.”

By maintaining such gradual eye contact, you can build a better rapport with all audience members. Then again, it prevents your thoughts from getting scattered if you leave your gaze scanning over everyone. Also, by focusing on one person at a time, you deliberately ignore the stares from others. This helps minimize the anxiety-inducing “fight or flee” reflex. 

3. Try the “Inward, Outward, Forward” Formula For Your Speech 

The Inward, Outward, Forward format of structuring your speech is a good way to make a strong point within a short time span. It helps the listeners retain your core message and align with your way of thinking. Here’s how it works:

• Explain why you are bringing up the topic. 
• Provide evidence on what others think about it. 
• End with a solution to the stated problem.

For example, if you are doing an after-action review meeting with your team, you can first summarize the main challenge you’ve faced. Then present examples of how individuals or other teams are handling similar issues. Lastly, sum up your proposal on the follow-up steps and solutions you’d recommend trying. 

4. Use the “Commander’s Intent” Technique to Make Your Ideas Stick 

Commander’s Intent (CI) is a technique the military personnel uses to communicate the main directive. 

A CI is a brief statement, placed on top of every order, summarizing the plan’s goal and desired end results. You can apply the same tactic to highlight the main points from each section of your speech. Or to prepare accompanying slides for the presentation.

Add a CI statement to the most important slides. Then expand on the idea within your speech. Doing so will help the audience focus on the key discussion point and retain the information better. 

5. Choose the Right Pitch and Tone of Voice 

Researchers from Yale University found that a speaker’s tone of voice and pitch influences the listeners’ perception of the speaker in terms of trust and likability. Why so?

Because voice is the most effective means for conveying emotions. It’s more channeling to disguise your attitude when you talk. So if you sound unconfident, anxious, doubting, or bored, the audience will likely sense that and act accordingly. 

For that reason, many amazing public speakers undergo voice coaching. They train to project the right emotions via their voice and naturally adjust pitch and vocal tone to convey different ideas. Most strive to achieve the maximum resonance point — a resonance that infers power to your voice.

For example, if your range is 2 octaves and 4 notes respectively, this is your max resonance point. Talking at this level most of the time is optimal. 

When you need to show passion, go a note higher. Go a note or two lower if you want to project certainty or authority. 

Final Tip: Work on Your Body Language

When presenting in person, your body language will also be telling of your confidence and authority. Plus, it will shape the audience’s perception of you, just like your voice.  Hence, be sure to practice your posture and gestures too! In particular:

Don’t self-block (aka trying to shrink your body).

This means crossing arms, slouching, keeping hands in the pocket, etc. Such movements act as a barricade between you and the audience. They make you appear less trustworthy. To avoid them, hold on to the microphone or a presentation clicker. 

Practice breathing and hand gestures.

Uneven, raspy breathing will affect your pitch and tone of voice. So practice taking slow, measured breaths to pace your speech better. Take longer pauses when you want to emphasize a point.  Also, use mild hand gestures, head nods, and arm movements to engage with the audience. But don’t gesticulate too much as this will appear distractive. 

Ultimately, there are no shortcuts. Practice, practice, and then practice some more! Great public speakers aren’t born — they are self-made! 

1. Presentation Content Slides Infographic for PowerPoint

The Presentation Content Slides Infographic, is a template that provides very useful tools to create any sort of professional presentation. Customize this PowerPoint Template according to your needs.

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PowerPoint Presentation Best Practices: The Presentation: Public Speaking

• Slide Content
• The Presentation: Public Speaking
• Tips & Resources

Don’t talk too fast. You may want to get your presentation over with, but pace yourself. Otherwise, it'll be hard to understand you. But definitely don't go over your allotted time, or people will start to zone out.

Try an Anecdote

When people hear a speech, they don't usually recall the data afterwards. Try using an anecdote—a quick interesting story—that gets your point across and makes it memorable.

If someone asks a question, remember to be courteous and thank your classmate or instructor for the question. If someone challenges your presentation, your instinct might be to become defensive. But remain calm, take a second, and then give your reasoning for why you stand by your presentation, restating your thesis if need be.

"But what do I do with my hands?!" (Body Language)

Try not to cross your arms, wring your hands, or clutch them together. You'll seem nervous (which of course you are, but they don't need to know that). Try putting a hand in your pocket or on your hip, or use a hand to gesture, or use one hand to hold (not clutch!) your cue cards. Stand up straight with your shoulders pushed back slightly— you'll look taller, cool, and knowledgeable. If you're feeling confident, step away from the podium. All the great presenters walk around the stage like they own it (think Steve Jobs). And of course there's eye contact...

You're a Human Being, Not a Robot

You want to enunciate your words, but without sounding robotic. Here's how: don't read from cue cards you wrote your speech on, word for word . Take it from me, and my personal experience. You think you're being sly, but everyone knows you're basically reading out loud, no matter how often you try to lift your head up to make brief eye contact. You just end up looking like a bobble head. (Or Ross from Friends — see clip below.) Try using cue cards with bullet points for each point you need to make, with key words or phrases—not full sentences, or you'll be tempted to read from it.

Practice, Practice, Practice!

Not sounding like a robot is where practice comes in. You need to be familiar with your own presentation, so you don't end up with your nose in your cue cards. Trust me; your presentation will seem so much more natural and you'll seem super confident and extroverted. And the rest of your class will be receptive to that, and pay more attention. Don't sweat! Just practice, take deep breaths, and feel free to make an (appropriate) joke or anecdote to break the ice.

What did you notice about Ross's presentation?

(He was reading from the cue cards in full sentences, which threw off his eye contact and his ability to sound like a normal human being. Even practice won't help that!)

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Unlock effective presentation skills (tips and best practices)

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

Anete Ezera March 23, 2023

Presentation skills are a crucial aspect of communication in today’s world. Whether you’re delivering a pitch to potential investors, giving a lecture in front of a class, or trying to make a point at a meeting, your ability to effectively present your ideas can greatly impact your success. However, not everyone is a natural-born speaker. Many struggle with nerves and self-doubt when it comes to presenting in front of an audience. But don’t worry! Improving your presentation skills is possible with practice and dedication. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with practical tips that will help you become a confident and engaging speaker. From preparing your material to engaging with your audience, we’ll cover everything you need to know to take your presentation skills to the next level. So whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your existing presentation skills, read on for all the advice and inspiration you need to succeed.

Types of Presentations

Before we dive into specific presentation skills, it’s important to define the different types of presentations that may require different skills in how they’re presented. There are several types of presentations you can choose from, each with its own distinct format and style. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of presentations:

Narrative presentations

In these types of presentations, the speaker focuses on telling a story that engages the audience and reinforces the main message. This type of presentation is perfect for engaging and entertaining an audience. It helps to keep the audience interested and focused and can be a great way to reinforce the main message. However, it can also be time-consuming to prepare a well-structured narrative.

Informative presentations

These types of presentations are designed to provide information on a specific topic. The speaker focuses on delivering accurate and relevant information to the audience in an organized and straightforward manner. This type of presentation is great for providing accurate and relevant information to the audience. The organized and straightforward delivery makes it easy for the audience to understand and retain the information. However, it can be difficult to keep the audience engaged and interested if the presentation is too dry or lacks excitement.

Persuasive presentations 

In persuasive presentations, the speaker aims to convince the audience to take a specific action or adopt a particular point of view. This type of presentation often includes arguments, statistics, and other persuasive techniques. However, if the arguments are weak or the persuasive techniques are ineffective, the presentation can fall flat and fail to achieve its intended outcome.

Demonstrative Presentations

These types of presentations focus on demonstrating a product or service to the audience. The speaker often includes visual aids, such as slides or videos, to help illustrate the key features and benefits of the product or service. However, it can be difficult to keep the audience engaged if the demonstration is too lengthy or repetitive.

Instructional Presentations

Instructional presentations are designed to teach the audience a specific skill or provide them with step-by-step instructions. The speaker often uses visual aids, such as diagrams or slides, to make the instructions clear and easy to follow. It’s perfect for teaching the audience how to perform a specific task. The use of visual aids, such as diagrams or slides, makes it easy for the audience to understand and follow the instructions. In this type of presentation, it’s important to present the instructions in a highly engaging way so the audience doesn’t lose interest.

Choosing the right type of presentation format can greatly impact the success of your presentation. Consider the audience, the message you want to convey, and the resources available to you, when deciding on the best presentation format for your needs. Once you’ve decided on a presentation format, you can move on to developing certain presentation skills that are most important for the specific case. 

Presentation delivery methods

The way you deliver your presentation is crucial. Therefore, we want to highlight this aspect before we dive into other effective presentation skills. A delivery method can make or break a presentation, regardless of the quality of the content. There are various methods of presentation delivery. The choice of method depends on the type of audience, the topic of the presentation, and the desired outcome. Discover 4 ways you can deliver a presentation and what kind of skills and approach they require. 

Traditional delivery

One of the most common presentation delivery methods is the traditional method of standing in front of an audience and delivering a speech. This method is suitable for formal presentations, such as keynote speeches, lectures, and corporate presentations. This method requires the speaker to have excellent public speaking skills, including voice modulation, body language, and eye contact. A traditional presentation delivery usually follows a classical presentation outline that has a clear beginning, middle, and end. 

Visually-focused presentation delivery

Another method of presentation delivery is the use of visual aids. This method involves using multimedia tools, such as images, videos, and infographics. Visual aids are effective because they can help the audience to better understand complex information, and they can also serve as a reference for the audience to refer to after the presentation. However, visuals should not be the sole focus of the presentation, as they can distract the audience from the message. 

If you want to create a visually-focused presentation, discover different Prezi presentation templates, and be sure to add images, videos, data visualizations, GIFs, stickers, and other visuals that you can find in Prezi’s content library and Prezi Design.  

If you want to learn more about the use of visuals in a presentation, and what are the best design practices, watch this video:

Interactive presentation delivery

Another way to deliver a presentation is by using interactive methods such as group discussions, role-plays, and simulations. This method is suitable for presentations that require the audience to actively participate in the presentation. Interactive presentations can be useful for training sessions, team-building exercises, and workshops. 

On Prezi, you can create highly interactive presentations where your audience can be active participants. Prezi’s non-linear format allows you to jump between topics instead of flipping through slides, so your presentation feels more like a conversation than a speech.

Storyteller delivery

The last method of presentation delivery is storytelling. It involves the use of anecdotes, personal experiences, and stories to deliver a message. Storytelling is a highly effective tool because it can help the audience to relate to the message on a personal level. 

Storytelling can also be used to make a presentation more engaging and entertaining. 

If you want to visually showcase a relation between two aspects and capture the transitional movement in a timeline, use motion, zoom, and spatial relationships in a Prezi presentation to showcase the nuances of your story world. 

Regardless of the presentation delivery method, make sure to follow the best presentation practices:

• Be well-prepared and knowledgeable about the topic. This can be achieved through research, practice, and rehearsal.
• Use clear and concise language that is easy for the audience to understand. You should avoid using jargon and technical terms, or you can take time to explain them to the audience. 
• Work on engaging the audience using eye contact, body language, and humor. This can help you establish a connection with the audience and make the presentation more engaging. 
• Be mindful of the time and ensure that the presentation is delivered within the allotted time frame.  
• Use effective visuals, if applicable, to support your message without overpowering it.

Effective presentation skills

There are numerous skills that you can develop to improve your presentations. In this article, we’ve summoned the following 8 presentation skills that are essential to any presenter that wants to make an impact with their message.

1. Effective communication

Effective communication skills are critical when it comes to presenting information to others. Presentations require a clear and concise message, and communication skills are key in delivering this message to your audience. Good communication skills allow you to connect with your audience, build rapport, and maintain engagement throughout the presentation. In addition, communication skills allow you to articulate your ideas and arguments clearly, and to respond to questions or challenges effectively. 

To improve this skill, practice speaking in front of a mirror or recording yourself to identify areas where you may need improvement. Also, consider using vocal techniques such as varying your tone and volume to keep your audience engaged.

2. Confident body language

Confident body language is an essential presentation skill as it communicates to the audience that the speaker is credible, knowledgeable, and in control. A confident posture, eye contact, and gestures can help you establish a strong presence and build rapport with the audience. It also helps you to convey your message more effectively. 

To practice confident body language, start by standing tall with shoulders back and head held high. Also, make eye contact with the audience and use natural hand gestures to emphasize key points. It’s also important to practice speaking clearly and with conviction, as this can further enhance the impact of confident body language during a presentation. 

If you’re interested in learning more about body language, read our article on 9 secrets to a confident body language . 

3. Audience engagement

Being able to engage your audience is a crucial presentation skill because it ensures that your message is well-received and understood. When you engage your audience, you capture their attention and maintain their interest throughout your presentation. This can make the difference between a successful presentation and one that falls flat. Holding the attention of your audience requires a combination of factors, such as having a clear message, being confident and comfortable in your delivery, using visual aids effectively, and connecting with your audience on a personal level. 

To improve this skill, you can practice rehearsing your presentation in front of friends or colleagues and seeking feedback. You can also try studying successful public speakers and their techniques and incorporating audience participation activities into your presentation to keep them engaged and interested. 

Additionally, you can engage your audience by opting for a motion-based presentation. It’ll enhance the impact of your content and ideas, making it more captivating for your audience to watch than a slide-based presentation. On Prezi, you can use motion, spatial relationships, and zooming effects to create highly impactful presentations. 

4. Time management

Time management is an essential presentation skill as it helps to ensure that you deliver your message effectively and efficiently within the allotted time. Poor time management can lead to an unprofessional and unprepared presentation, leaving the audience disinterested or confused.

To practice good time management, begin by planning and rehearsing your presentation in advance. It’s important to allocate sufficient time to each section and consider factors such as audience engagement and potential interruptions. You can also use time-tracking tools and practice pacing yourself during rehearsals to ensure you stay on schedule. By mastering time management, you can deliver a polished and engaging presentation, leaving a positive and lasting impression on your audience.

5. Content organization

Effective organization of presentation content is crucial for any presenter, as it determines the clarity and impact of the message. Organized content can help you convey your ideas in a logical and coherent manner, which aids in maintaining the audience’s attention and retention of information. 

To ensure that your presentation’s content is well-organized, it’s important to follow a few key steps. 

• Identify the main points you want to convey and arrange them in a logical order.
• Create a clear outline that includes an introduction, main body, and conclusion.
• Use transition words or phrases to smoothly connect each point to the next. 
• Ensure that your presentation has a consistent flow and that each point supports your overall message. 

By following these steps, you can effectively organize your presentation’s content and create a memorable and impactful experience for the viewers.

If you’re creating a sales presentation, be sure to read our step-by-step guide on crafting a winning sales presentation .

Also, discover how to best structure your presentation based on your presentation goal in this video:

6. Storytelling 

Storytelling is a powerful presentation skill that can captivate your audience’s attention and enhance the impact of your message. Stories allow us to connect with people on a deeper emotional level, and help us convey complex ideas in an easy-to-understand way. When we tell a story, we engage our audience, evoke their imagination, and inspire them to take action. 

To develop strong storytelling skills, you should practice telling stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end that convey a message or lesson. It’s also important to incorporate sensory details, such as sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, to help the audience visualize the story. Also, make sure to focus on the tone of your delivery, including voice inflection, body language, and facial expressions, to effectively convey the emotions and dynamics of the story. Finally, use one of Prezi’s presentation templates like the one visualized below, or create your own story presentation on Prezi and visualize relations between topics, events, and characters using spatial relationships and visual hierarchy. 

By mastering the art of storytelling, you can deliver a powerful presentation that resonates with the audience and creates a lasting impression.

7. Adaptability

Adaptability is a crucial presentation skill – it allows you to adjust and respond to unexpected situations, changes, and challenges during the presentation. The key is to be properly prepared. This means researching your topic and practicing your presentation speech enough so that you’re prepared for any changes or questions that may arise. When you’re prepared, you’ll feel more present and be able to read the room and adjust to your audience’s needs and interests. Also, be flexible and open-minded to new information, feedback, and audience reactions. This skill will enable you to think on your feet and modify your content or delivery style accordingly. 

And lastly, you want to uphold the quality of your presentation no matter where you’re presenting, online or offline. If you need to adapt your presentation to an online experience, use Prezi Video and simply import your already-existing Prezi, Powerpoint, or Google slides, and deliver the same level of presence and quality as offline. With Prezi Video, you can showcase your slides next to you on-screen as you present, keeping that face-to-face interaction. 

Make sure to check out Prezi Video templates that you can find in Prezi’s template gallery .

8. Confidence

Last but definitely not least, one of the key presentation skills a great presenter possesses is confidence . Presenting with confidence can help you engage your audience and convince them of your authority and knowledge on the topic at hand. When you exude confidence, the audience is more likely to trust you and your message, leading to better communication and understanding. 

Developing confidence can be achieved through several methods. Practicing your speech multiple times, visualizing a successful presentation, and focusing on positive self-talk are all techniques that can help boost your confidence. Additionally, learning to control body language and voice tone can also have a positive effect on confidence levels during your time in the spotlight. 

By implementing these strategies, you can build your confidence and improve your presentation skills each time you’re speaking in front of an audience. 

Discover more about effective presentation skills in this video:

How to improve public speaking and presentation skills

While working on the effective presentation skills we listed above, you may feel nervous about public speaking in general. It’s no secret that public speaking can be a daunting task for many people. However, if you want to be a powerful, confident, and impactful presenter, you need to overcome your fear of anxiety of public speaking and improve the way you feel and appear when presenting. 

If you want to learn more about different techniques that can help you calm down before a presentation, here’s a helpful video for you to watch:

To help you become better at public speaking, we summoned 20 tips you can follow:

1. Practice, practice, practice

One of the most effective ways to become more comfortable with public speaking is to practice your speech as much as possible. When you practice, you can work out any kinks or rough spots that you may encounter when giving your speech in front of an audience. Additionally, practicing allows you to become more familiar with the material, making it easier to remember and deliver with confidence. While it may be tempting to simply read your speech from a script or cue cards, practicing your speech will allow you to internalize the material and deliver it with greater ease, flow, and naturalness. Therefore, it’s highly recommended that you take the time to practice your speech as much as possible before giving it in front of an audience, whether that be your friends, family, or colleagues.

2. Use presenter notes 

Preparing for a presentation can be a lengthy endeavor, particularly if you aim to memorize the entire script. Trying to remember every point can be challenging. Plus, the stress of public speaking can cause you to overlook crucial details. Jotting down your talking points can help you stay organized and avoid forgetting any essential information. However, relying solely on flashcards or paper notes may not be ideal. Constantly glancing at sticky notes or looking away from your audience can disrupt the flow of your presentation and disconnect you from your listeners. Instead, try using presenter notes on Prezi , where you can easily add notes to each slide. While presenting, you’ll be the only one that sees them, helping you deliver an impressive presentation with maximum confidence. 

3. Know your audience

When delivering a speech, it’s important to analyze and understand the audience you’ll be speaking to. By doing so, you can tailor your speech to their interests and needs. This means that you should take into account factors such as their age range, educational background, and cultural or professional affiliations. Additionally, it’s important to research the topic you’ll be discussing thoroughly and provide examples that are relevant to your audience. By doing this, you can ensure that your message will resonate with your listeners and leave a lasting impact.

4. Start with a strong opening

To really captivate your audience, it’s important to start with a strong opening that grabs their attention and sets the tone for the rest of your speech. One approach could be to start with a thought-provoking question or a powerful anecdote that relates to your topic. Alternatively, you could begin with a surprising fact or statistic that shocks and intrigues your listeners. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s attention-grabbing and relevant to the message you want to convey. Remember, the opening of your speech is your chance to make a lasting impression, so make it count!

Discover other ways to start your presentation speech and watch this video for more tips on starting a virtual presentation: 

5. Use humor

Using humor can be a great way to start off a presentation. It can help to reduce the tension in the room and make your audience feel more at ease. For example, you could start off with a joke or a funny story that relates to your topic. Alternatively, you could use a humorous image or meme to grab your audience’s attention. Just be sure not to overdo it – too many jokes can detract from your message and make you seem unprofessional. Remember that the ultimate goal of your presentation is to communicate information and ideas effectively, so use humor wisely.

6. Incorporate stories

Using stories in your speech can be an incredibly powerful tool. Personal stories, in particular, can help illustrate your points and make your message more memorable. By sharing a personal experience, you can connect with your audience on a deeper level and create an emotional bond. This can help them better understand your message and remember it long after your speech is over.

One way to incorporate personal stories into your speech is to draw from your own life experiences. Think about a time when you faced a challenge or overcame an obstacle, and how that experience taught you something valuable. Share that story with your audience and explain how the lessons you learned can be applied to their lives as well.

You can also use stories to illustrate more abstract concepts. For example, if you’re giving a talk about the importance of perseverance, you could share a story about someone who faced numerous setbacks but refused to give up. By sharing that story, you can make the concept of perseverance more concrete and relatable to your audience.

7. Use pauses

Using pauses is a great way to enhance your communication skills. In fact, when you take breaks in your speech, can help you gather your thoughts and think more clearly. Pausing also allows you to emphasize key points you want to make in your speech. Additionally, by using pauses strategically, you give your audience time to process the information you’re sharing with them, which can help ensure that they understand and retain it better. All in all, incorporating pauses into your speaking style can be incredibly effective in making your message more impactful and memorable.

8. Speak clearly and loudly

When delivering a speech or presentation, it’s important to speak in a manner that is clear and easy to understand. However, it’s equally important to ensure that your voice is projected loudly enough for your audience to hear you. Speaking too softly can make it difficult for people in the back of the room or in larger spaces to hear what you’re saying, which can lead to confusion and a lack of engagement. To avoid this, try to practice projecting your voice and enunciating your words clearly before you give your speech. You can also use tools like microphones or audio amplifiers to help ensure that your message is heard loud and clear by everyone in the room.

9. Take deep breaths

Taking deep breaths is a great way to help you relax and calm your nerves, but there are other things you can do too. For example, you might want to try some light yoga or stretching exercises to loosen up your muscles and release tension. Also, you could take a warm bath or shower to soothe your body and mind. Another option is to listen to some calming music or read a book that you enjoy. By taking the time to find what works best for you, you can develop a personalized relaxation routine that you can turn to whenever you need it.

10. Use repetition

Repetition is a powerful tool that can help you drive the point home in your speech. By repeating key points, you can reinforce your message and increase your chances of being remembered. In addition, repetition can help you emphasize important ideas and create a sense of rhythm in your speech. It can also be used to build suspense and create a sense of anticipation in your listeners. With these benefits in mind, it’s clear that repetition is an essential aspect of effective public speaking.

11. Use active verbs

One way to improve the effectiveness of your speech is to use active verbs. Active verbs help to create a more engaging and dynamic presentation, as they convey a sense of action and energy. By using active verbs, you can help to capture your audience’s attention and hold their interest throughout your speech.

In addition to using active verbs, it’s also important to consider the pace and rhythm of your speech. Varying the speed and tone of your delivery can help to keep your audience engaged and prevent them from becoming bored or disinterested.

Another way to enhance the impact of your speech is to use vivid language and descriptive imagery. By painting a vivid picture with your words, you can help to create a more memorable and impactful presentation. For example, instead of simply saying “the sky was blue,” you could describe it as “a brilliant shade of deep blues, like the ocean on a clear summer day.”

By focusing on these key elements of effective speechwriting, you can help to create a more engaging and impactful presentation that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

12. Ask rhetorical questions

Rhetorical questions are a powerful tool that can help make your speech more engaging and interactive. They can be used to stimulate critical thinking, provoke curiosity, and encourage the audience to reflect on the topic at hand. By asking a thought-provoking question, you can capture the audience’s attention and encourage them to think about the subject matter in a new and different way. Furthermore, rhetorical questions can be used to create a sense of anticipation and excitement, as the audience eagerly anticipates the answer to the question you have posed. 

13. Use metaphors and similes

Metaphors and similes are powerful tools that can help individuals better understand complex concepts. They are like a flashlight that illuminates the dark corners of the mind, providing clarity and insight. By comparing two seemingly different things, metaphors and similes can create a bridge between the familiar and the unfamiliar, allowing individuals to grasp difficult ideas with ease. In our fast-paced world, where information overload is a common issue, the use of metaphors and similes can help cut through the noise and deliver a clear message. So, the next time you encounter a challenging concept, remember to use these techniques to shed light on the subject matter.

14. Prepare handouts

When giving a speech, it’s important to remember that your audience needs to be able to follow along with what you’re saying. One way to help them do this is by using handouts. Handouts can be a great way to enhance your presentation because they allow you to provide additional information that may not be covered in your speech. For example, you can use handouts to provide graphs, charts, or other visuals that illustrate your points. Additionally, handouts can be a useful tool for your audience to take notes and refer back to later. By providing handouts, you can ensure that your audience is engaged and able to fully understand the information you’re presenting.

15. Incorporate props

Using props during your speech is a great way to enhance your delivery and keep your audience engaged. By incorporating visual aids such as props, you can help to illustrate your points and add depth to your content. Additionally, props can be used to make abstract concepts more concrete and easier for your audience to understand. For example, if you’re delivering a speech on the importance of recycling, you could bring in a visual prop such as a bin of recyclable materials to help drive home your message. Overall, the use of props can help take your speech to the next level while making it more memorable and impactful for your audience.

16. Practice in front of a mirror

Another useful tip for improving your presentation skills is to practice in front of a mirror. Not only can this help you perfect your body language and delivery, but it can also give you a better sense of how you come across to others. Additionally, practicing in front of a mirror can help you identify any nervous habits or tics that you may have, allowing you to work on eliminating them before your actual presentation. Overall, incorporating mirror practice into your preparation routine can be a simple yet effective way to boost your confidence and improve your presentation skills.

17. Join a public speaking group

Joining a public speaking group is a great way to improve your public speaking skills. Not only will you have the opportunity to practice speaking in front of others, but you’ll also receive valuable feedback that can help you improve. Additionally, by joining a group, you’ll have the chance to meet and network with other like-minded individuals who share a passion for public speaking. This can lead to new opportunities and connections that can benefit you both personally and professionally. Finally, being part of a public speaking group can also provide a sense of community and support, as you work together with others to achieve your goals and improve your skills.

18. Record yourself 

Another way to enhance your public speaking skills is to record yourself. By doing this, you can identify areas where you need to improve and refine your delivery. When you listen to yourself speak, you can pay attention to your pitch, pacing, and tone. You can also identify filler words or phrases, such as “um” or “like,” that you might use unconsciously. Additionally, recording yourself can help you become more comfortable with the sound of your voice. This can be especially helpful if you’re not used to hearing yourself speak for extended periods of time. Overall, recording yourself is a simple yet effective way to become a more confident and polished public speaker.

19. Learn to handle interruptions

One of the most common challenges that speakers face is handling interruptions. These interruptions can come in many different forms, such as unexpected questions, technical difficulties, or distractions in the environment. It’s important to learn how to handle these interruptions gracefully, as they can often derail a speech and throw off the speaker’s focus and confidence.

One key strategy for handling interruptions is to remain calm and composed. It’s natural to feel frustrated or flustered when faced with an interruption, but it’s important to take a deep breath and stay focused. Remember that interruptions are a normal part of public speaking, and they don’t have to ruin your presentation. If you need a moment to collect your thoughts, don’t be afraid to pause and take a few seconds to regroup.

By learning to handle interruptions with grace and composure, you can become a more effective and confident speaker. With practice and preparation, you can manage interruptions and keep your presentation on track, even in challenging situations.

20. End on a strong note

When giving a speech, it’s important to not only focus on what you say during the body of your presentation, but also on the way in which you conclude. A strong presentation should summarize the main points of your speech and leave a lasting impression on your audience. This can be achieved by reiterating your main points in a memorable way, making a call to action, or leaving your audience with a thought-provoking question. By doing so, you’ll ensure that your message resonates with your audience long after your speech has ended.

Another useful technique is to anticipate potential interruptions and plan how to address them in advance. For example, if you’re giving a presentation with a Q&A session at the end, be prepared for questions that might challenge your ideas or require additional information. It can be helpful to practice your responses to common questions ahead of time so that you feel more confident and prepared.

Discover other memorable ways how to end a presentation.

Effective presentation skills are key. While not everyone may be a natural-born speaker, with practice and dedication, anyone can improve their abilities to become a confident and engaging presenter. Whether you’re pitching to investors, delivering a lecture, or presenting in a meeting, being able to effectively present your ideas can greatly impact your success.

Remember, becoming a great presenter is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and constant improvement. Don’t be afraid to seek feedback from others, practice regularly, and try out new techniques. With time, you’ll become more comfortable and confident in your abilities to deliver engaging and impactful presentations.

In conclusion, improving your presentation skills is a worthwhile investment that can pay dividends in both your personal and professional life. So take the time to hone your abilities, put in the effort, and embrace the opportunities that come your way. With the tips and techniques we’ve provided in this blog post, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident presenter.

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Presentation Techniques, Public Speaking & Communication Skills

The good news is, good public speaking and communication skills can be acquired. Even so-called ‘natural born’ public speakers or communicators have to learn and practise important presentation techniques over time to perfect it. Some of these presentation techniques, public speaking and communication skills are highlighted below.

These presentation techniques are derived from many expert presenters on how to elevate their presentations from “good” to “outstanding”. Whether you are an experienced presenter or novice, these presentation techniques will help you improve on your delivery while minimising any potential pitfalls.

There are three parts to this guide:

• Planning the presentation
• Preparing the presentation
• Delivering the presentation

Planning Your Presentation

“The only sure way to create a successful presentation is to begin with the goal in mind.”

Jerry Weissman, leading corporate presentations coach.

Firstly, determine the purpose of the presentation. For example, is it to publicise a new product, make a sales pitch or to share information about your company or institution. Having a clear purpose will ensure your audience receive the right information.

It is also important to know the profile of your audience such as their age groups, educational background, professions and income levels. Such information will help you to tailor your presentation according to their level of understanding. For instance, if you are presenting to a group of mostly technocrats, more technical terms can be used. If presenting to a general audience, more layman terms will be more appropriate to aid their understanding.

Before the presentation, it is also important to gather information about the presentation venue. These include:

• Capacity of presentation room and expected audience size.
• Layout of room – is it squarish, elongated or pillarless?
• Equipment – are there sufficient projection screens and loudspeakers in the room, what is the projection screen size and what type of projector is in use (standard or widescreen?)
• Room lighting – is there a dimmer?

Such information is important as it can affect the effectiveness of your presentation. If the room is elongated and has many pillars, your audience may find it difficult to see your projection screen. Hence, more than one projection screen may be required. Also, check whether your audience at the back of the room can hear you clearly.

It is also advisable to arrive at your presentation venue early to check and ensure the room setup is optimised and the equipment are working fine. Even if you have mastered all the presentation techniques and meticulously prepared for your public speaking assignment, equipment failure could compromise everything that you have worked so hard for.

Preparing the Presentation

Decide the outline of your presentation and how your information will flow. Then create a story around your presentation. Story-telling is one of the most effective presentation techniques as it helps to engage and connects your audience emotionally and hence, enables them to digest information more easily. Every presentation should consist of these three parts for it to flow seamlessly:

At the opening, provide your audience with an outline of your presentation and what they are expected to learn or hear from you. A vital presentation technique is to start strongly in order to grab your audience’s attention and hold it. If not, most will switch off. There are three objectives in public speaking – to inform, convince and persuade. If you fail to engage your audience, you would lose these objectives. This is especially so in the middle of your presentation as this is the time when message recall is at its lowest ebb.

Use the 10-20-30 Rule for Slideshows – This is a presentation technique used by Guy Kawasaki, who suggested that slideshows should:

• Contain no more than 10 slides.
• Last no more than 20 minutes; and.
• Use a font size of no less than 30 point.

The last point is particularly important – it ensures your font size is big enough for the audience to see clearly, especially those sitting at the back of the room. It also prevents you from putting too much information on any one slide and eliminate the dreaded ‘Death by PowerPoint’.

If your audience requires more information about your presentation, you can provide them handouts after the session. Don’t give them before the presentation as many may end up reading your notes instead of listening to you. If this happens, your ability to engage them and listen to you will be lost.

Tell Stories – All presentations are a type of theatre and stories can help your audience relate to you, which reinforces what they learn. It also helps to make the presentation more effective and memorable.

“Story persuades by creating a sense of involvement.”

Josh Gordon, author of Presentations that Change Mind.

However, give the audience only what they need to know, and craft your story around it.

“A clear and concise story can give a presenter the clarity of mind to present with poise.” 

Jerry Weissman, renowned corporate presentations coach

To learn more about story-telling techniques, please refer to the article “ 15 Storytelling Tips and How to Apply them Today ”.

Closing the Presentation – After spending a lot of time preparing your presentation and sharing it, make sure that you reinforce the key information by summarising them. By repeating the key points, it will refresh your audience’s memory.

There are many presentation techniques for this, but one of the most frequently used is the ‘Rule of Three’, which suggests that people generally tend to remember concepts or ideas better, when presented in threes. Some examples are ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’, ‘Mind, Body and Spirit’ and the ‘Good, Bad and the Ugly’.

Work out what the three messages that you want your audience to take away before structuring your conclusion. This could be three words, phrases or sentences.

Delivering the Presentation

“Persuasion is the art in which all business presenters must be prepared.”

  Jerry Weissman, leading corporate presentations coach.

Build trust – Communicate to your audience the facts or quality about you, your company, the products you sell or an idea you are advocating. If you are able to gain their trust, what you say will carry more weight and sounds believable.

Be passionate to help connects with your audience – To connect with your audience, project your passion into your presentation. Be honest and enthusiastic with the audience about what you say, and your audience will respond likewise. As mentioned earlier, the objectives of public speaking are to inform, convince and persuade. You will not be able to deliver these objectives if you fail to connect with them.

Focus on you audience’s need – Always remember the main reason your audience is attending your presentation. Always bear in mind their needs and what they want to know, not what you like to tell them. Focus on your audience, make it easy for them to understand and respond to you.

Keep it Simple and Concentrate on your Key Message – Always remember what are the key messages you want your audience to take away. Tell them what benefits they will gain. To do so, communicate to them clearly while reminding them briefly throughout your presentation. You can use the ‘Rule of Three’ to emphasise your key points and make it easy for them to remember.

Smile and Make Eye Contact with your Audience – Surprisingly, even seasoned presenters have failed in this aspect. By smiling and making eye contact, you will build rapport with your audience. This helps them to connect with you and the subject you are talking about. Making eye contact can also help alleviate some of your nervousness because it gives you a feeling that you are talking to individuals instead of a mass of strangers.

Project Your Voice Effectively – Public speaking using monotone is a sure-fire way to put your audience to sleep. To present effectively, vary the speed you talk. Also, use different pitch and tone to emphasise certain points. This will make your presentation more interesting and help capture your audience’s attention.

Body Movement – Body movements can reveal much about you – whether you are confident, nervous, authoritative or weak. Some body language to avoid includes crossed arms, keeping your hands behind your back or in your pockets, looking down instead of making eye contact, and pacing back and forth. To project confidence, make your gestures open and move naturally around the stage, or even among your audience. If you want to emphasise a point on your screen, turn your body towards it while using your hand to gesture in the same direction. Your audience will naturally follow your cue.

Relax, Regulate Your Breathing and Enjoy – If you are nervous, your audience can easily sense it. One way to relax is to regulate your breathing and take deep breaths. Also, have occasional short pauses during your presentation to calm yourself down and collect your thoughts. Do not rush through your presentation and ‘get it out of the way’. You will be doing a great disservice to yourself and your audience.

Practice Makes Perfect – As mentioned earlier, public speaking and communication skills can be learned. To communicate effectively, rehearse your presentation as many times as required. One way is to video yourself presenting and you will notice all sorts of mistakes you are making. This includes the way you speak, your vocal tone, facial expression, body movements and hand gestures. You may even find yourself unconsciously making some involuntary movements. I have witnessed this before during a public speaking course when a participant kept rubbing his hand against his arm. He only realised it when the public speaking coach brought it to his attention.

Presentation Techniques And PowerPoint Design

Although mastering all the important presentation techniques is important, a good PowerPoint design is equally crucial for delivering a successful presentation. In a PowerPoint presentation, the following is a summary about what annoys audiences:

As can been seen, beside acquiring effective presentation techniques, public speaking and communication skills, we must also learn how to design good PowerPoint presentations. Meanwhile, the following resources will help you eliminate the so-called ‘Death by PowerPoint’:

Effective Presentation Design

• Education PowerPoint Design

Eight Common PowerPoint Presentation Mistakes

However, should you require creative PowerPoint design services or if you encounter any difficulties in crafting a professional-looking PowerPoint presentation, please contact us  for an obligation-free consultation. We offer very competitive and personalised  PowerPoint presentation services . We also provide three design options that will cater to the different needs and budgets. Here are some examples of our design ideas .

In addition, we also offer the following design services for your business presentation, advertising and marketing campaigns:

• Infographic Design
• Cinemagraph Design
• PowerPoint Video Design

Useful Presentation Resources

The following are some other useful presentation resources to help with your PowerPoint design.

• What PowerPoint Slide Size to Use?
• How to Change PowerPoint Aspect Ratio?
• Free PowerPoint Diagrams

Related Posts

Powerpoint design ideas for your next presentation.

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Public speaking: the basics

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10 Tips to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills

Public speaking is a skill that many people want to improve. Here's some tips to help you feel confident when presenting ideas to a group of people.

Public speaking has to be one of the most important professional skills because it is used in nearly every industry. But it is also one that people commonly fear. The good news is, speaking confidently and effectively in front of a group is a skill that anybody can master.

Whether you're presenting findings to your team or explaining complex ideas to potential investors, you can improve your public speaking skills with a little practice. Here are 10 ways you can start practicing today.

10 tips to improve your public speaking

We'll present you 10 tips you can use to start improving your public speaking skills.

1. Know your audience. 

You're more likely to feel comfortable presenting to an audience if you know who they are. That way, you can craft your message in a tone that resonates with them, perhaps using humor to ease the tension.

Start by assessing your audience's level of understanding of the topic you plan to discuss. This will determine the amount of background to give and whether you should aim to be more professional or casual.

As you’re speaking, stay aware of the group's reactions. Adjust accordingly so you can connect with them throughout your presentation.

2. Practice, practice, practice. 

Even the most seasoned public speaker needs practice to be effective. Give a mock presentation of your speech in advance, so you can determine if you’ve organized the information cohesively and clearly. 

It may help to talk out loud to an imaginary audience or in front of a mirror, but it’s even more effective to practice with the help of a supportive co-worker, friend, or family member as an audience. 

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3. Use feedback to your advantage.

Whether you’re practicing or giving a presentation, ask for feedback. This constructive criticism could include specific examples that you can use to improve for future presentations.

If your friends point out that you say "umm" or "you know" too much, make sure that you're not taking the feedback personally. Integrate their comments into future presentations and thank your friend or team for giving you invaluable feedback.

4. Make it your own. 

Connecting with an audience can be easier when you add your own personality or flair. Let your personality shine through as you convey your message, whether you are a naturally funny or empathetic person. Be authentic and appropriate—use humor when it can enhance your work, rather than detract from it.

If you use a PowerPoint presentation while speaking, make sure you're not reading from it word for word but using images or videos to bring your presentation to life. You may want to add your contact information at the end of the presentation so people can follow up with you afterward.

5. Connect with a personal story.

Personal stories or anecdotes can enhance your presentation. When TED Talk Speakers take the stage, they often begin with a short anecdote about their childhood or personal experience. This structure helps them connect with the audience, share their passion for what they're about to discuss or explain their expertise. 

To add this kind of personal touch to your presentation, make sure what you share has a direct connection with the topic at hand.

Learn more about storytelling and influencing with this course from Macquarie University.

6. Make eye contact.

Making eye contact with your audience can actually help you feel more at ease because you'll get a sense of whether they understand what you're saying or need to clarify further. Practicing your speech or presentation beforehand can help you feel more comfortable making eye contact.

As they say, much of effective communication relies on body language. Moving your gaze around the room can help your audience feel more engaged, which in turn will make you feel more confident.

7. Use the stage to your advantage.

Before the presentation, know where you'll be speaking. Check that your PowerPoint presentation works with the provided equipment. Make sure you know how the room will be set up. Ask about time constraints, whether people will be eating during your talk, and what kind of microphone you’ll be using.

When you’re on stage, own the space. Walk to different areas to make eye contact with other people in the audience. Be aware of your body language. Let your arms hang loosely. Stand with excellent posture, with your back straight. Smile.

8. Calm your nerves.

It’s normal to still find yourself overcome with nerves at some point in your presentation, despite your preparation. When this happens, take a deep breath. No one’s expecting you to be perfect.

Instead of thrusting your hands in your pockets or playing with your hair, think of ways to cope with your nerves beforehand. You might make sure to exercise that morning or meditate for five minutes before speaking.

9. Record yourself speaking. 

Co-workers and friends can help provide feedback, but you can also evaluate yourself while speaking. When you speak in front of a group, set up your phone to record yourself and watch it later. You may be surprised by your nervous habits or awkward phrasing. You might find new ways to improve the readability of your PowerPoint slides.

If you're giving a presentation on Zoom, ask your audience if you can record the meeting. Use this technology to improve your skills to be even more effective next time and avoid ruminating on mistakes. Stay positive.

10. Make a lasting impression with a strong conclusion. 

Just as experts encourage speakers to grab their audience’s attention within the first 30 seconds of their presentations, it’s also wise to create a solid ending to any presentation. This closing can include things like: 

A call to action that encourages listeners to take the next step

A memorable quote that inspires or illustrates a point from your presentation

A personal story that demonstrates why this issue is so important to you

A summary of the most important takeaways 

Remember to thank the audience for their time once you conclude your presentation. If there is time, you can invite questions and answer them from the stage, or prompt them to follow up with you afterward.

The importance of developing your public speaking skills.

Public speaking skills are helpful for growth in your career but also in everyday life. Here's some ways developing strong public speaking skills can benefit you:

Strengthen team-building and collaboration 

Share your ideas and offer solutions to work-related problems

Earn esteem with employers and co-workers alike

Create connections that can lead to new professional opportunities

The benefits of these skills transfer easily to other areas of your life. You can improve your relationships along with your professional success by developing clear and effective communication . 

It can take time to improve public speaking skills. The key to confidence is a willingness to embrace the temporary feeling of discomfort that comes with developing any new skill.

Next steps for success 

Apply these public speaking tips to improve your ability to confidently execute a presentation. Further refine your skills by practicing and learning from those who can demonstrate their success in public speaking . 

Join a public speaking support group.

Toastmasters International , a nonprofit organization with chapters throughout the world, empowers people to develop their public speaking and leadership skills in a supportive group setting. Members practice giving speeches and overcoming shyness and anxiety with regular online and in-person meetings.

Attend public speaking events.

If your town or city offers events with speakers on various topics, consider these opportunities to learn. When watching others give presentations, use a critical eye to learn what works and what doesn’t. Ask yourself why you enjoyed or didn’t enjoy the lecture, based on their tone, expressions, and body language. 

Watch videos of effective public speaking.

Finally, you can enjoy the same learning experience of in-person lectures by watching videos of influential public speakers. TED Talks is an online collection of presentations on a wide range of topics, including science, entertainment, and business. Watch as many as you can and use the best speakers as mentors to improve your confidence and success in public speaking.

Take public speaking classes. 

Online public speaking courses provide opportunities to learn ways to improve communication skills from the comfort of your home or office. Take the Introduction to Public Speaking course or Dynamic Public Speaking Specialization offered by the University of Washington to gain confidence as you learn presentation and public speaking skills.

Give your team access to a catalog of 8,000+ engaging courses and hands-on Guided Projects to help them develop impactful skills. Learn more about Coursera for Business .

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Public Speaking and Presentations: Tips for Success

This resource includes tips and suggestions for improving your public speaking skills.

Even if you’ve never spoken in front of a large group before, chances are you will encounter public speaking sometime during your life. Whether you’re giving a presentation for your classmates or addressing local politicians at a city council meeting, public speaking allows you to convey your thoughts and feelings in clear ways. Having the right tools can prepare you for successful public speaking and equip you with high-quality communication skills.

Know Your Audience

Different audiences require different modes of public speaking. How you address a room full of preschoolers will vary from how you address a group of professors at an academic conference. Not only will your vocabulary change, but you might alter your pacing and tone as well.

Knowing your audience also helps you decide the content of your speech. For example, if you’re presenting research to a group of scientists, you might not need to define all your scientific language. However, if you present that same research to a group of individuals who are unfamiliar with your scientific field, you may need to define your terms or use simpler language.

Recognizing the extent to which your audience is familiar with your topic helps you center your presentation around the most important elements and avoid wasting time on information your audience either 1) already knows or 2) does not need to know for the purpose of your speech.

Knowing your audience also means tailoring your information to them. Try to keep things straight and to the point; leave out extraneous anecdotes and irrelevant statistics.

Establish Your Ethos and Feel Confident in Your Subject

It’s important to let your audience know what authority you have over your subject matter. If it’s clear you are familiar with your subject and have expertise, your audience is more likely to trust what you say.

Feeling confident in your subject matter will help establish your ethos. Rather than simply memorizing the content on your PowerPoint slides or your note cards, consider yourself a “mini expert” on your topic. Read up on information related to your topic and anticipate questions from the audience. You might want to prepare a few additional examples to use if people ask follow-up questions. Being able to elaborate on your talking points will help you stay calm during a Q & A section of your presentation.

Stick to a Few Main Points

Organizing your information in a logical way not only helps you keep track of what you’re saying, but it helps your audience follow along as well. Try to emphasize a few main points in your presentation and return to them before you conclude. Summarizing your information at the end of your presentation allows your audience to walk away with a clear sense of the most important facts.

For example, if you gave a presentation on the pros and cons of wind energy in Indiana, you would first want to define wind energy to make sure you and your audience are on the same page. You might also want to give a brief history of wind energy to give context before you go into the pros and cons. From there, you could list a few pros and a few cons. Finally, you could speculate on the future of wind energy and whether Indiana could provide adequate land and infrastructure to sustain wind turbines. To conclude, restate a few of the main points (most likely the pros and cons) and end with the most important takeaway you want the audience to remember about wind energy in Indiana.

Don't be Afraid to Show Your Personality

Delivering information without any sort of flourish or style can be boring. Allowing your personality to show through your speaking keeps you feeling relaxed and natural. Even if you’re speaking about something very scientific or serious, look for ways to let your personality come through your speech.

For example, when Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek announced in March of 2019 that he had stage 4 pancreatic cancer, he still let his trademark dignity and professionalism set the tone for his address. He began his announcement by saying “it’s in keeping with my long-time policy of being open and transparent with our Jeopardy! fan base.” Later, he joked that he would need to overcome his illness in order to fulfill his contract, whose terms required him to host the show for three more years. Though the nature of Trebek's announcement could easily have justified a grim, serious tone, the host instead opted to display the charm that has made him a household name for almost thirty-five years. In doing so, he reminded his audience precisely why he is so well-loved.

Use Humor (When Appropriate)

Using humor at appropriate moments can keep your audience engaged and entertained. While not all occasions are appropriate for humor, look for moments where you can lighten the mood and add some humor.

For example, just two months after the assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan, Reagan was in the middle of giving a speech when a balloon loudly popped while he was speaking. Reagan paused his speech to say “missed me,” then immediately continued speaking. This off-the-cuff humor worked because it was appropriate, spontaneous, and did not really distract from his message.

Similarly, at the end of his final White House Correspondents Dinner, Barack Obama concluded his speech by saying “Obama out” and dropping the mic. Once again, the humor did not distract from his message, but it did provide a light-hearted shift in his tone.  

Don't Let Visual Aids Distract From Your Presentation

Visual aids, such as PowerPoints or handouts, often go alongside presentations. When designing visual aids, be sure they do not distract from the content of your speech. Having too many pictures or animations can cause audience members to pay more attention to the visuals rather than what you’re saying.

However, if you present research that relies on tables or figures, having many images may help your audience better visualize the research you discuss. Be aware of the ways different types of presentations demand different types of visual aids.

Be Aware of Your Body Language

When it comes to giving a presentation, nonverbal communication is equally as important as what you’re saying. Having the appropriate posture, gestures, and movement complement the spoken element of your presentation. Below are a few simple strategies to make you appear more confident and professional.

Having confident posture can make or break a presentation. Stand up straight with your shoulders back and your arms at your sides. Slouching or crossing your arms over your chest makes you appear smaller and more insecure. However, be sure you’re not too rigid. Just because you’re standing up tall does not mean you cannot move around.

Eye contact

Making eye contact with your audience not only makes them feel connected to you but it also lets you gauge their response to you. Try to look around the room and connect with different audience members so you’re not staring at the same people the whole time. If you notice your audience starting to nod off, it might be a good time to change your tone or up your energy. 

Avoid distracting or compulsive gestures

While hand gestures can help point out information in a slide or on a poster, large or quick gestures can be distracting. When using gestures, try to make them feel like a normal part of your presentation.

It’s also easy to slip into nervous gestures while presenting. Things like twirling your hair or wringing your hands can be distracting to your audience. If you know you do something like this, try to think hard about not doing it while you’re presenting.

Travel (if possible)

If you are presenting on a stage, walking back and forth can help you stay relaxed and look natural. However, be sure you’re walking slowly and confidently and you’re using an appropriate posture (described above). Try to avoid pacing, which can make you appear nervous or compulsive.

Rehearse (if Possible)

The difference between knowing your subject and rehearsing comes down to how you ultimately present your information. The more you rehearse, the more likely you are to eliminate filler words such as like and um . If possible, try practicing with a friend and have them use count the filler words you use. You can also record yourself and play back the video. The more you rehearse, the more confident you will feel when it comes time to actually speak in front of an audience.

Finally, Relax!

Although public speaking takes time and preparation, perhaps one of the most important points is to relax while you’re speaking. Delivering your information in a stiff way prevents you from appearing natural and letting your personality come through. The more relaxed you feel, the more confident your information will come across.

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Public Speaking Skills

Feb 28, 2014

1.33k likes | 2.29k Views

Public Speaking Skills. Necessary for The Lector Ministry. Two Major Categories. Verbal Skills. Nonverbal Skills. Verbal Communication Skills We Must Learn and Develop. Proper Breathing and Breath Control Monotone and Vocal Variety Emphasis and Stress of Words and Phrases

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Presentation Transcript

Public Speaking Skills Necessary for The Lector Ministry

Two Major Categories Verbal Skills Nonverbal Skills

Verbal Communication Skills We Must Learn and Develop Proper Breathing and Breath Control Monotone and Vocal Variety Emphasis and Stress of Words and Phrases Appropriate Pacing and Rate of the Reading Pausing Clear Articulation and Pronunciation

Breathing &Breath Control • Lose Your Breath, Lose Your Voice! • The most fundamental part of speaking is breathing!

Proper Breathing • A Good Posture • Deep Breaths • Use of The Diaphragm and Abdominal Muscles • Breathing During Natural Pauses

Breathing Exercise Do the exercise sitting or standing • To allow the lungs to expand fully, a proper posture is essential. • Slowly breathe in through your nose as you imagine that you are a vessel filling up with air. • Hold this breath for a count of five. • Exhale slowly through your mouth.

Benefits of Proper Breathing • Breathe more effectively. • Proper posture for breathing creates a confident, strong appearance. • Deep breathing decreases tension and helps you control your nerves better. • Will automatically set a better pace for your reading.

Tips for Practicing Breathing Techniques • Practice breathing while driving. • Practice breathing while sitting at your desk or at home when you would normally be slumped over in your chair. • Lying down before going to sleep or lying down on the floor at the end of a workout session.

Tips for Practicing Breathing • Always start with good a posture. • Breathe in through your nose as this will protect your vocal cords. • Breathing through the mouth dries out the vocal cords and you could experience sore throat. • Notice your breathing from time to time during the course of your practice readings.

Monotone & Vocal Variety • Monotony is caused by speaking in a monotone. • Staying on one note during most of the reading and modulating your voice only at the end of a sentence or phrase. • The hypnotic, repetitious evenness of the voice is what puts us to sleep. • The sameness of the sound makes it bland and unemotional.

Using Vocal Variety • Combine differences in your pitch, rate, and volume.

Vocal Variety • The single most important quality demanded by an audience is vocal variety. • What audiences find most difficult to listen to is a monotone voice that lacks color, variations in pitch, animation or warmth. • The Scriptures are alive and we ought to read them accordingly! • We ought to read them with expression and avoid reading in a boring monotone.

Vocal Variety • Let the literary style of the reading have an impact on how you read it. • Let your voice reflect your understanding of what you read. • Read as if what you are reading has meaning for you personally. • Whatever you do, avoid reading with a dull monotone voice.

Exercises for Vocal Variety • Use vocal modulation to communicate the various levels of syntax or the appropriate range of feelings.

1 John 5:5-6 1 John 5:5-6 Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? This is the one who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one that testifies, for the Spirit is the truth.

Emphasis and Stress ofWords & Phrases • "It's not what you say, but how you say it?" • The emphasis we place on the words we read also influences the meaning of what is said.

Simple Exercise to Illustrate I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job. I don’t think he should get that job.

Observations • Important words in a sentence are said: • More slowly, • Usually at a higher pitch, • Sometimes a little more loudly than unimportant words.

Benefits of Using Emphasis & Stress of Words and Phrases • Changes the pace of the reading. • The focus of the listener is now on the one saying the words.

Things to Remember • As lectors, we bring our personal witness of what the Scripture means to us. • responsibility to the Assembly to help them “see” God as He is. • Some will object to the use of emotion as being “too dramatic”. • The true meaning of the sentence is expressed through the stressed word or words.

The Use of Tone • Equally important, the "tone of voice" or "attitude" of the lector conveys emotions. • Decide carefully what you want to emphasize. • Decide exactly what tone to use and where to place emphasis.

Appropriate Pacingand Rate of Reading • Most frequent complaint: everyone reads too fast. • To be understood you cannot read as quickly as you talk in everyday conversation.

Tongue-Twisters Peter Piper Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers. Peter’s mother pickled the peppers that Peter picked. The Pipers boasted about Peter’s pepper picking propensities! The World’s Worst Tongue Twister (Guinness Book of Records) The sixth sheik’s sixth sheep’s sick.

Conclusion • The proclamation of the Word of God effectiveness is enhanced when individuals slow down in their reading, ensuring that words are pronounced clearly and distinctly.

Appropriate Pace • The first principle concerning the pacing of the reading is to slow down. • The pace of the reading depends on the contents of text, the space and the sound system.

Caution • It is possible to read too slowly. • Reading becomes tedious, boring and lifeless.

Revisiting Breathing • For vocal variety, you are encouraged to vary your pace by speeding up and slowing down appropriately. • People have trouble with pacing due to poor breathing. • Reading too fast is often the result of not stopping to breathe often enough. • Solution: To slow down your reading with the breath, consciously take a breath before you begin and remember to stop and breathe between ideas and sentences. • Reading too slow can be the result of not taking in and using enough air • Solution: Check your posture. This may be caused by poor posture.

Pausing • The challenge in effective pausing is learning not to fear silence. • Your audience must process the text. • Effective pausing gives the assembly the time to process. • It gives you time to refresh your understanding and your voice. • A well-executed pause is one way to emphasize part of a text.

Appropriate Pausing • The best guarantee that you will employ pauses and all the elements of vocal variety is your thorough understanding of the text and your courageous desire to share it fully with your audience.

Clear Articulation & Pronunciation • Articulating words clearly is extremely important for the lector. • This helps the assembly to hear and understand the Word of God.

Articulation • Articulation is the physical production of particular speech sounds. • Articulation involves the “shape,” or formation, of sounds with the lips, tongue, teeth, soft palate and muscles of the face. • All syllables must be pronounced, the ending of words not dropped, and that multiple words are not strung together to form one unintelligible word. • Lazy articulation can muffle sounds and make words difficult to understand.

Pronunciation • The accepted standard of the sound, rhythm and stress patterns of a syllable, word or phrase in a given language. • Identify what words are unfamiliar to you. • Very important to pronounce words properly. • Pay particular attention to words that are easily misread or mispronounced.

Exercises for Articulation Exercise I Bite a pencil, as if you have a horse bit mouthpiece. In that position, read a newspaper aloud for five minutes. Notice how you loosen all the muscles of the face. Exercise II Take a book and start reading aloud, slowly and in syllables: Cle-ar-pro-nun-ci-a-tion-of-words-so-that-o-thers-can-hear… Read a few paragraphs exaggerating your reading and grimacing as you speak. Then, read faster but still in syllables and making sure that you pronounce each of the letters in each word.

The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, That I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them. Isaiah 50:4

Nonverbal Communication Skills • Posture • Eye Contact • Bowing • Hand Position • Moving and Walking • Making Mistakes

Posture • Slouching will detract from your reading, as will leaning back and putting your hands in your pockets. • When standing at the ambo, be still and avoid fidgeting. • Relaxed posture, neither stiff nor careless, is a must. • Hold your shoulders back, place your legs directly beneath your shoulders (don’t lock your knees!), and keep your back straight.

Eye Contact • From the ambo, it is important to make eye contact with the assembly. • Not a darting glance. • Nor a sweeping eye/windshield wiper movement across the church that really looks at no one, nor a look over the heads of listeners. • Watch for falling into a mechanical pattern: up and to the right, up and to the left, right, left.

Right Time for Eye Contact • There are times when making eye contact is appropriate. • The opening line and closing dialogue of the reading. • During the reading, you might want to make eye contact at certain points but not at others. • You will feel most comfortable making eye contact throughout the reading if you are familiar enough with it to be able to look up at the people and back down at the Lectionary and not lose your place.

Bowing • Any gesture should be done with care and deliberation. • Most common gesture is bowing, if you pass in front of the altar on your way to or from the ambo (there is no reason to bow if you do not pass in front of the altar). • A deep bow is made to the altar by all who enter the sanctuary, leave it, or pass before the altar.

Hand Positioning • In general, hand gestures are not necessary when serving as a lector. • Let them rest on the ambo, holding the Lectionary, or subtly marking your place with a finger.

Moving and Walking • Movements should be done with purpose and reverence. • Handle these books reverently. • Carry using two hands and pick up and put down carefully.

Making Mistakes • Is it better to keep moving on or go back and read it correctly? • At times leave listeners to make the obvious correction. • However, if there is a serious change in the meaning of a statement that either contradicts the text’s meaning or could baffle or confuse the community, it is best to go back and re-read what has been misread. • Take a slight pause followed by an “Excuse me,” then a re-reading, is sufficient • Give the thought its full value; read it as if for the first time

What We Can’t Fake "The appropriate inner qualities of the reader become apparent to the listener without a single word being proclaimed." The love for the word of God and the belief that Jesus is present in every reading of Scripture is the boast of a great lector. It's the one thing we can't fake. In God we have boasted all day long; your name we will praise forever: Psalm 44:9

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