Arghh - presentations !!!

[Ilovetomodell]

I have to give a presentation as part of a job interview next week. I am absolutely terrified. Any tips?

say what you're going to say, say it, tell them what you've said

if you're using powerpoint, do not repeat all the text on the slides

in fact, have very little text on the slides - well chosen pictures (not clip art) are more effective at getting a message across than reams of text

think what's the key message you want to get across

speak more slowly than you think you need to

be careful with jokes unless you're really good at performing

remember to breathe!!

What is the presentation about?

Agree with PP, try not to use too many slides, avoid lots of text, and avoid reading the slides.

The slides should just be there to add information, they are there for the audience, not as a prompt for you.

I'm nervous about being nervous! And it being obvious. Any ways I can keep calm?

Know it really, really well so it sounds effortless. Many people are nervous when they do presentations but how many times have you been aware of this - most people will not notice! I find it useful to have something to hold onto (notes to refer to if I need to or a podium etc). Good luck!

Practice. I have to give loads of presentations. You can't help being nervous - I still am. I practice in front of the mirror, to the dog, anyone that will listen etc etc.

Don't have more than seven sentences on each slide. Preferably bullet point them. It's ok to have cards in your hand to prompt you - have a key word per thing you want to say, i.e. for a job interview, key words like 'experience', 'strengths' etc - have a word for each bullet point so you don't have to keep looking at your slides.

Don't make it too long or have too many special effects.

If you find yourself speeding up - take a deep breath - SMILE and carry on.

Practice it. A lot. Simple and effective is better than complicated and flustered!

Re: keeping calm, listen to some calming music beforehand, take deep breaths, ask for a glass of water and use it to give you pauses if you need them.