Public Speaking - Preparing for a Successful Presentation

It may surprise you to learn that providing solid information is the key to a successful public speaking experience. If your presentation has a useful message, no one will notice if your knees wobble or your voice trembles. However, this does not mean that your short presentation should attempt to provide an encyclopedia full of knowledge. For the best results, try to summarize your topic into two or three main points. You may wish to prepare a detailed outline to assist you in your initial research, but you will need to condense this information onto a few note cards before your final presentation.

If you find that your emotions are getting the best of you, take time to put your presentation into the proper perspective. Many people have discovered that visualization is a helpful strategy for overcoming a fear of public speaking. Inexperienced speakers often dread public speaking because they imagine themselves stammering, blushing, or forgetting key concepts. However, successful speakers visualize themselves delivering interesting and informative presentations to an active and engaged audience. They avoid what psychologists often refer to as “negative anticipation.”

When you are preparing for a public presentation, avoid mood-altering substances such as coffee, alcohol, or cigarettes. These emotional crutches can hamper your performance by creating unintended side effects. You may also want to avoid eating for one hour before your presentation, since a full stomach can lower your overall energy levels.
Public Speaking - Understanding Your Audience