Public Speaking Tips
MRAM April 2012
SUGGESTIONS FOR MAKING WEBINAR PRESENTATIONS INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE
1.
PRESENTATION STYLE
 Speak clearly and distinctly.
 Stay close to the camera; do not move around too much.
 Speak into the microphone; keep the distance from your mouth to the microphone consistent.
 Talk at a reasonable speed; your audience takes in information faster than you speak.
 Speak dynamically; it sounds engaging to the audience.
 Always end by asking if there are any questions.
o Especially for the online audience, repeat the question so everyone hears it.
o If needed, provide some context so the full audience understands the question before you give the answer.
2.
Reminders as you design your presentation
 Plan your presentation for the audience’s needs
 Keep the presentation as short as possible.
 Define special terms or acronyms; don’t assume the audience already knows.
 Set the stage with background facts and informational context.
 Organize and connect your topic with their current work; what is the benefit for them?
o How will it impact them at the local level? Example: “This new system will save you time when doing the XYZ.”
 Then unfold the new material so that someone with some or little background can follow your presentation.
o Example: Your topic is the new “PAS landing pad”. You explain: ”You have a subcontract with an outside
organization; when you create a purchase order in the Purchasing System (PAS) for 03-62, you will find a new link
to the “PAS Landing Pad” where documents can be uploaded. “
 Tell them where they can find more information (e.g., webpage)—don’t try to give all the details
3.
PowerPoint Hints
 Slides should be for guiding the presentation – don’t read the slides verbatim.
 Use the fewest slides possible
 Avoid text-heavy slides text; think like an advertiser--catch their attention with a few words & pictures
 Use pictures or diagrams to display the information or “take home message” from the presentation.
o The audience can look at one slide while you talk them through it.
o The diagram shows the relationships, causal factors, start/end points.
o This breaks up the monotony of text only slides.