In this technological age, electronic presentations have
become the norm and are almost universally expected, with PowerPoint being the
most commonly used computer based presentation package. Although multimedia
technology, in principle, may help speakers deliver more effective
presentations, inappropriate use of PowerPoint features can downgrade the
quality of a presentation. The effectiveness of any lecture does not depend
predominantly on the quality of the visual aids, but on the ability of the
presenter to communicate with the audience. Indeed, a stunning visual
presentation will not mask poor content. Identify the message that you want to
get across to the audience and consider how you can best achieve this while
clearly explaining your points and maintaining the listener’s attention.
Preparation
Once you are aware that a presentation is required, whether
for a small group or a national meeting, it is worth starting to plan your talk
well in advance. Initially it is important to consider the size and background
of the audience you will be addressing. The expected size of the audience will
to some extent influence your style of presentation, particularly in terms of
how interactive the presentation may be. It is also helpful to have some
knowledge regarding the range of disciplines or background of the audience and
their likely awareness or experience of the topic you will be discussing.
The best presentations are rehearsed, not so that the
speaker memorizes the talk but to facilitate his or her ability to interact
with audience and portray a relaxed confident style. Practicing your talk in
front of others allows rehearsal of the timing and highlights areas where you
may need to revise your phrasing in order to explain difficult topics with
greater ease. Further preparation may also include visiting the room to be used
(this may be the same day if the presentation is at a venue away from your
usual workplace) in order to test any equipment and become familiar with the
setup for controlling the slide display. Ensure that you have saved your
presentation onto multiple media, e.g. memory stick, laptop and/or CD-ROM in
case there are technical difficulties.
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