Presenting Correctly - "You are the message!"
"When one speaks, the others must be silent - that is your chance - misuse it!" Learn how to present correctly! This advice was already given to us by Kurt Tucholsky in the 1930s - of course, not entirely serious. Perhaps you have felt truly "misused" as a listener of a boring speech or presentation at some point. Unfortunately, a survey of 300 large companies reveals nothing pleasant: a whopping 44% of presentations are perceived as "boring"; an incredible 40% of speeches are even considered "sleep-inducing." Only a meager 3% of presentations were considered "stimulating" by the respondents. What's going on there?, the tormented listener might think. Can none of us present and speak properly? First of all: When you have to give a presentation, what goes through your mind? Do you perhaps immediately feel a bit queasy in the pit of your stomach, sweaty hands, and a racing heart? You are not alone in this! In a survey on fears, it was found that twice as many people fear public speaking as they fear death! So, as mentioned, you are not alone with your fears here. After all, a little stage fright can actually be beneficial for the performance. But if the upcoming presentation causes massive stress, only one thing helps: practice, practice, practice! This tip is simple and effective: In Germany, presentations are usually well-prepared. Ask yourself how much time you spend preparing your PowerPoint slides or other supporting materials. Good. And how much time do you take to actually practice the presentation out loud? None? Exactly! However, this is one of the most important factors. Practice out loud, ideally recorded with a camcorder or on tape, or simply presented to your family or colleagues. This way - and no other way - you can test and ultimately optimize your impact as a speaker. Additionally, you will notice yourself if the material is well-rehearsed - the thematic content. Clothes still make the man: You can also see how your outfit works for the occasion. Does the suit or costume fit? Is the chosen attire suitable for the occasion and the audience? A three-piece suit with a bow tie would probably be a bit "overdressed" for a presentation at a software start-up company, while showing up in a casual t-shirt and faded jeans at a financial services firm would likely not be taken seriously, unless you are the designer of that same clothing. The good news: The media consultant for many US presidents, Roger Ailes, aptly titled his bestseller "YOU are the message!" - Your viewers want to see a real person with emotions and quirks. Otherwise, why would you give a speech? If it were only about the content, you could just distribute copies and save time for yourself and the audience - sorry! So, if you are asked to speak, show yourself from your best side. Be likable but also authentic as a speaker. This is much more effective than meticulously designed PowerPoint slides. Of course, the use of modern media is indispensable today. But please use it sparingly and appropriately for the subject. Conclusion: Let's summarize once again what is necessary for an entertaining presentation so that you can present correctly. First and foremost: YOU! Then the preparation, the structure of the presentation, and don't forget: practice out loud, practice, practice. I am more than happy to assist you with my speaker training. I will accompany and coach you intensively, individually and/or in a group. Afterwards, you can say, slightly modified with Kurt Tucholsky's words, "When one speaks, the others must be silent, that is your chance - SEIZE it!" Good luck and have fun practicing!
