I’ve been giving a lot of talks lately and although they are linked to my latest book, the talks are extensions of it. This allows people who have bought the book and potential buyers to learn new information when they listen to my talk. Preparing a talk can take hours, and if you’re like me, you can tweak it right before you speak. Here are some suggestions for a five-star presentation.
Measure your talk. He gives the talk to yourself multiple times and finds out which sections take the longest. Also check the spacing of examples and personal stories. When I timed my recent talk, I realized there was plenty of time for more detailed stories. These details made my talk more interesting.
Learn about the audience. The speech you give to a church group will be different from the one you give to Rotary. You can keep the essence of your talk, but add different examples. Citing recent news about the organization or group, such as a fundraiser, will attract the audience’s attention.
Slow down and get enough sleep. When you run a lot of errands before your talk, you risk burning out. The night before a talk I go to bed early to be rested the next day. The only thing you should avoid is yawning during your talk. Yawning is contagious and if you start yawning audience members will start yawning which is not good.
Eat a light meal or snack. Talking takes energy and I never give a talk on an empty stomach. Instead, I eat a light meal: a small salad, half a sandwich, or a cup of soup. Yogurt with granola and fruit is another option. Your goal is to have the energy you need.
Drink some water. You can’t speak clearly if your mouth is dry. Professional speakers drink water before speaking and keep water on hand as well. I bring water or ask the group to supply it. Don’t feel guilty about pausing in the middle of your conversation for a drink; your audience will understand.
Give away books. As surprising as it may seem, giving away books is one of the cheapest ways to advertise. I ask if someone has a birthday that day and I give them a book. If no one has a birthday, I ask who had a birthday last month or who will have a birthday next month. Some people get books and everyone gets a bookmark.
Check the pictures. I’m not a technical person, so it’s rare that I have computer slides. However, if you have this experience, you can do them. Because I am a former teacher, I always have brochures.
Make sure you have your talk or notes. Don’t make the mistake I did. I once put my notes on the podium and the previous speaker took them by mistake. I spoke extemporaneously and my talk was well received. However, I learned from this experience and my grades never leave my side.
Preparing to speak can take just as long as preparing your speech. These steps are worth the effort.