Not everyone enjoys performing in public. On the contrary: many of us are happy to have any presentation behind us. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your performance.

No one complains about a presentation being too short

Long presentations can make an audience feel tired and bored. Such a presentation will fail completely to achieve the desired effect. Say what you want to say, then stop talking and leave room for questions.

A picture is worth a thousand words

Use pictures rather than a series of bullet points. Research shows that, compared to text, pictures are up to five times more likely to ensure a message will be better remembered by the recipient.

Engage your audience

If possible, make the presentation interactive and engage the audience as you talk. This will keep their attention or encourage further questions on the topic.

Create interesting statistics

One means of audience involvement might be an interesting survey, which you can organise directly during your performance.

Live with fear

All speakers are nervous before a presentation. This is caused by a combination of adrenaline and testosterone which affects both men and women. Learn how to use it. Learn to live with a degree of fear.

Clean your shoes

If you plan to present in person as opposed to online, do not neglect important details of your appearance. A practical recommendation: look at your shoes and make sure you have cleaned them properly.

Eye contact

Maintain good eye contact with the audience. Don't focus only on one section of the audience. Spread your attention around the room.

Avoid jargon

Speakers often play buzzword bingo. Don't have participants floundering in technical terms and jargon that not everyone may understand. Use everyday language.

Do not use PowerPoint sound effects

It may seem amusing to have applause at the end of a slide or squeaky sound of a new bullet, but it will needlessly distract the audience.

Inspect the room in advance

Check the room has everything you need and ensure the presentation works on the screen. This will avoid unpleasant surprises on the big day.

Do not drink alcohol before presenting

Alcohol or a hangover will be the kiss the death for your presentation. Alcohol draws all enthusiasm from the voice, not to mention how you look. Use water for hydration and go to bed early the night before.

Do not press your knees together

When you get to the lectern, loosen your knees as if you were about to catch a ball. You will feel much more relaxed.

Gentlemen, carry a spare shirt and tie

If you have a presentation at a conference or on a hot summer day, for example, remember also to take a change of clothing. You don't want sweaty stains on your shirt or greasy stains from snacks on your tie.

We hope you will be inspired by these presentation tips.

-bb-