Table of contents
Open Table of contents
Introduction
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to deliver a talk with minimal preparation time? It can be a daunting experience, but it also presents valuable lessons for growth. In this article, I will share my personal experience of delivering what I now know to be an under-prepared talk and the three key things I learned from it. We’ll explore how to make the most of your speaking opportunities and unlock more of your potential as a confident presenter.
Point 1: Consider the Practicalities
When planning a talk, it is crucial to think beyond the content and slides and consider the practical aspects of the delivery.
During my own experience, I had devoted significant time to crafting the content and trying to design visually appealing slides. However, I neglected to consider the logistical details of the speaking environment. It became apparent on the day of the talk that my assumptions about the projection setup and visibility of speaker notes were incorrect.
To adapt, I resorted to using my phone for speaker notes, which resulted in me frequently looking down and disconnecting from the audience. Additionally, I had not anticipated the need for a clicker to navigate the slides smoothly. The final delivery consisted of me with a clicker in one hand trying to navigate notes in the other. This was distracting for me and distracting for the audiance.
This experience taught me the importance of preparation and simplicity in an unfamiliar setting.
Point 2: Consider the Audience
Understanding your audience goes beyond knowing their background and interests; it also involves considering their physical presence and how best to engage with them during an in-person talk.
While I had invested time in researching and understanding the background of my audience, I failed to consider their physical location and the impact it would have on my delivery. In-person presentations require a different approach compared to virtual ones. I realized that I could have engaged the audience more effectively by making the talk interactive, using techniques such as raising hands or asking direct questions. Acknowledging the audience’s physical presence can significantly impact the delivery and flow of a presentation.
Point 3: Consider Yourself
Believing in yourself and trusting your knowledge and preparation are vital aspects of delivering a successful talk.
In my case, relying on notes on my phone proved to be a distraction. At times, my phone would lock due to inactivity, interrupting the flow of my speech. This reliance on external aids hindered the quality and delivery of my talk. Reflecting on this experience, I realized the importance of trusting myself to deliver the material I had prepared.
While index cards or other tools can be helpful, it is essential to have confidence in your own abilities and knowledge. By letting go of crutches and trusting yourself, you can deliver a more engaging and impactful presentation direct to your audience.
Outro
When it comes to public speaking, it is crucial to remember that there is more to it than just the content and slides. The delivery itself plays a vital role in engaging the audience and conveying your message effectively. By considering the practicalities of the speaking environment, understanding the physical presence of the audience, and trusting yourself, you can enhance your speaking skills and make the most of every opportunity.
Remember, preparation, adaptability, and self-belief are key to delivering a compelling talk that resonates with your audience.
Aspiring Speakers Lightning Talks.
This post was initially delivered as a lightening talk to the Aspiring Speakers Community. It’s available for viewing on the Aspiring Speakers Lunchtime Lightning Talks channel from [13min 10 secs].