When you have the opportunity to speak before an audience, you naturally want to make a good impression and leave them with a clear recall of your central points. However, all too often such opportunities are squandered by overly nervous presenters, purposeless and weak verbiage, and too many irrelevant facts and figures.
However, if you follow these 3 guidelines from sales presentation training, you can deliver an effective presentation that delivers a sharp, clear message…not an indistinct, blurred memory.
- Know your audience. Why are they there? What do they hope to learn from you? What can you teach them that will be of value? Don’t think of yourself as a star on the stage as much as a mentor who can share knowledge and insights with your listeners.
- Go for impact. Speak with confidence and open strong in order to capture audience attention and hold their interest. If you deliver your message in the form of a story, it will be far more memorable than a listing of facts and figures. And don’t be afraid to show your passion so your message has the power to inspire.
- Practice in order to hone your message and overcome presentation anxiety. Rehearse in front of colleagues or friends who will give feedback on which parts of your presentation are powerful and which need more work. They should also critique your body language, tone of voice and degree of eye contact…all of which convey your story along with the words you use.
