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Networking Article from Networking Today Canada, Nat'l

Twelve Questions to Ask Yourself Before Every Presentation

Author: Karen Susman

Date: Feb 2011

Before every presentation, big or small, ask yourself these questions. You'll create a more effective presentation and reduce your stress. Many of these questions work well with one-on-one presentations, too. So, the next time you go in ask for a raise or to interest your customer in buying the new X4Z02 Snazzarama model, go through this list.

Do I know this audience and what it wants and needs to hear? If not, ask questions of your host and participants until you do. What are the demographics? What's happening in the organization? Who are the key players? What's the history? What is the knowledge and interest level? Is your audience voluntary or under orders to show up? What happens before and after your presentation?
Do I have just three to five main points? Don't overwhelm your audience with everything you know. Besides, if you are invited to speak again, what will you have left to say?
Am I starting my remarks with a real grabber like a quote, startling statistic or pertinent anecdote? Leave the jokes at home. Forget about saying, "It's really nice to be here," or some other tired openers.
Have I identified and formulated one clear message that I'll repeat at least 6 times? Your one vital message will keep you and the listener on track and show you're organized. Plus, you and your message will be memorable.
Do I know where I'm speaking, how to get there, when I'm speaking, what I should wear and who my contact person is?
Have I selected my wardrobe with an eye for appropriateness, professionalism and ease of movement? Have a literal dress rehearsal to make sure you'll feel and look your best on presentation day.
Have I scheduled time to check out my A/V equipment before the presentation? Can my visuals be seen and read by everyone in my audience?
If there's a power failure, can I still do my presentation? Can you spell "Plan B"?
Do I know where to cut my presentation if I have to? Repeat your one clear message, have a call to action and take a bow.
Have I rehearsed but not memorized my presentation? Please don't read your presentation. Notes with a few key trigger words are okay. Make your presentation conversational.
Have I brainstormed what questions the audience might ask me? Do I know the answers?
Have I repeated, "I'm looking forward to this. I'm looking forward to this. I'm looking forward to this?" This mantra can give you confidence, and relax you. Plus, you really should look forward to every opportunity to share your ideas with others.

Remember that every presentation is about meeting the audience's needs. If you want to get your point across, you've got to know your audience. You get your needs met by meeting their needs first.

Karen Susman is a Speaker, Trainer, Coach, and Author of 102 Top Dog Networking Secrets. Karen works with organizations that want to maximize performance. Programs include Humour at Work; Balance In Life; Networking Skills; Presentation Skills; and Building Community Involvement. Order new guidebooks on humour, networking, time management, and community involvement by calling or email Karen@KarenSusman.com. www.KarenSusman.com

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