before your presentation you are caught in a dilemma

Like what you're reading?

15 things to do 15 minutes before a presentation

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

Chelsi Nakano October 04, 2014

All that time spent polishing, honing, and rehearsing your presentation… Gone in a split second. You’re on stage, paralysed by fear. You can’t open your mouth. Your heart is beating like a drum, and the fight-or-flight reaction is in full swing.

What’s the best way to beat this terrifying paralysis? The more we can make presenting feel habitual, the less nerve-wracking it will be. This routine made up of 15 simple habits will help you count down to every presentation with less anxiety and better preparedness.

1 5 minutes before your presentation: Walk to the venue.

Many studies have demonstrated that light exercise activates the brain. For instance, scientists at the Salk Institute have shown that walking can improve verbal and spatial memory.

A study at Princeton University , published in the Journal of Neuroscience, demonstrates that light exercise reduces anxiety. But how do you fit this useful activity into your busy schedule? The simplest exercise that you can always do without any equipment is walking. So the next time you have a presentation, why don’t you park a bit further away and make sure that you have a short walk before you reach the venue?

14 minutes before your presentation: Have a mint and drink some water.

No matter how beautiful your presentation looks or how polished your speech is, perpetually clearing your throat—or even worse, not being able to make any sounds at all—will distract your audience.

Add some mints to your packing list and make sure to have them in a bag close to you. Ask for a bottle of water at the venue or carry your own. These steps will ensure that your voice doesn’t suddenly fail you when showtime rolls around.

13 minutes before your presentation: Hit the restroom and check a mirror.

Get into the habit of going to the restroom before a big presentation. There’s another reason to do so besides the obvious. A visit to the restroom gives you a chance to check your appearance in the mirror. Fear can make us vulnerable to serious, even irrational doubt. Checking our general appearance in a mirror can help reassure us that we look just fine.

12 minutes before your presentation: Set up the technology early.

There is nothing worse than having a rush of public speaking anxiety while you are in a full computer meltdown.

Don’t rely solely on the technical team at the venue. Make sure that you know how to connect your laptop to a projector , how to switch between the different video and input modes, and how to put your presentation in fullscreen mode.

Consider bringing a few extra gadgets. A remote allows you to stand further away from the podium. A USB stick with a backup of your presentation can be useful in case your tech does not work.

11 minutes before the presentation: Check your desktop background.

If you already know that you are going to present using your laptop, you have no excuse for embarrassing yourself with your desktop background.

Does it tell a story you want to share with your audience? If it does, way to go—you’ve found a nice way to break the ice. If—as more often happens—your desktop image does not add much to your presentation, or even distracts your audience, go with something from the presets of your computer and save yourself any embarrassment.

10 minutes before your presentation: Practice the first minute of your presentation.

The beginning is the hardest part when it comes to giving presentations. Having the full first minute of your presentation committed to memory will help you at the most critical moment.

As Stephen Lucas writes in The Art of Public Speakin g , “Research has shown that a speaker’s anxiety level begins to drop significantly after the first 30 to 60 seconds of a presentation.”

Having memorized your first 60 seconds can give you a head start in overcoming the hardest part of your presentation. When those first moments have passed and you are still alive, standing and speaking, your fear starts to fade and your confidence starts to grow.

9 minutes before your presentation: Just breathe.

Calming exercises and meditation can certainly help in controlling pre-presentation anxiety, but if you need to deliver a high-energy talk on stage, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to slow yourself down just before stepping on stage.

My suggestion is instead to focus on your breathing. Anxiety stops us from breathing normally. Focus on breathing deeply, and you will find that your heart rate will slow down and you’ll feel less anxious.

8 minutes before your presentation: Stand up.

A study by the Harvard Business School shows that our pose influences how we perceive ourselves. If we make our bodies small, we will feel smaller—that means less powerful, and thus, less convincing on stage. And since you need to be persuasive, it’s much better if you feel big in front of your audience.

Standing will also make your heart rate go up, bringing more blood to the brain and activating more muscles in the body. This will prepare you for a high-energy delivery.

7 minutes before your presentation: Smile.

Your audience will mirror your mood. You don’t need to signal to them how tense you are. In fact, you should show a different side of yourself. The best way to ease your listeners into your presentation is to smile. Smiling is a universal symbol of openness and acceptance—it signals that you welcome your audience.

Moods are contagious. Your smile will make your audience feel more at ease.

6 minutes before your presentation: Meet the audience.

If nobody is talking before you, and you are all set before the time of your presentation, you have a terrific opportunity—time to talk to your audience members individually.

The abstract notion of “audience” will be radically transformed by just talking to one or two of them. They will no longer seem like a menacing group but rather an aggregate of individuals with names, personal stories, needs and aspirations.

This cue comes from Scott Berkun, author of Confessions of a Public Speaker, which highlights how beneficial it can be to have some friendly faces in the audience.

5 minutes before your presentation: Remember, you don’t look as nervous as you think.

Your presentation is about to start and you have a rush of thoughts in your head. Most of them are not calming at all. The good news is that your audience can’t see those thoughts.

Remember, you are the only person that is inside your head. Your audience has no idea how nervous you really are. You are standing in front of them greeting them, talking with them, your technology is already in order, you’re smiling. They will have no clue how you are feeling inside.

Your anxiety is going to be our little secret, right?

4 minutes before your presentation: Control your audience.

Before fear starts controlling you, start controlling your audience. Solicit their opinions. You can ask for a show of hands or ask something very simple and ask them to simply shout their answer. If they comply with some simple “orders” like tweeting with the correct hashtag or raising their hands if they are newcomers, then there is no point in fearing them, right?

3 minutes before your presentation: Never complain.

I’ll be honest—it’s really hard to stick to this one. When glitches happen during a presentation, it’s tempting to give in and complain. But complaining makes your audience focus on a fault, an error, something missing, something broken. You may know that your presentation looked better on a different projector, but your audience doesn’t need to know that. They need to focus on the benefit of your presentation, not on some technical glitch or shortcoming.

2 minutes before your presentation: Transform your fear into energy .

Let go. Don’t block your fear or anxiety. Let it circulate freely in your body and your mind. There is really no way that you can completely control it. You can do one thing, though—use your fear to give you energy and strength. You can limit the negative effects of anxiety as demonstrated in a study conducted by Alison Wood Brooks at Harvard Business School.

Yes, this is a presentation and it requires your alertness and attention. So use your fear to energize yourself, give you more focus, alertness and attention.

1 minute before your presentation: Don’t obsess over small details.

There is a difference between written and oral language. Even native speakers make small mistakes while speaking. It’s normal, and you shouldn’t obsess about it.

Instead of worrying about small details, focus on the big picture. Make sure you cover all the basics and never mind the smaller glitches that may happen during your talk. Nobody but you will recall these details, if they remain in the background of a great event.

Showtime: Just begin!

Your host has introduced you, your first slide is on the screen, and all eyes are on you. Fear strikes. Feel it. React to it by saying one word—the word that begins your presentation. You have rehearsed it and know it by heart. Count mentally to three and begin with your well-rehearsed first minute.

Addendum: Find your own routine. This is my personal routine. It is so ingrained in my public speaking habits that I also have a checklist that I carry around when I’m speaking.

This post was written by Matteo Cassese, author of the innovative and creative presentation training platform Presentation Hero . Matteo is also a consultant and entrepreneur living in Berlin. For more of his writing , you can check out his blog .

You might also like

Prezi, zoom, and slido walk into a webinar: top tips for engaging virtual audiences, do this, not that: the sales pitch, do this, not that: keynote speech, give your team the tools they need to engage, like what you’re reading join the mailing list..

• Prezi for Teams
• Top Presentations

14 Fast Ways For How to Calm Down Before a Presentation

Are pre-presentation jitters making you feel frazzled? Does the thought of giving a speech in front of an audience make you anxious? If you’re like the majority of the population, the answer is probably yes.

In fact, public speaking is one of the #1 fears of most people… But dont worry, there’s hope to overcome this (or at least, calm your nerves)!

Luckily, there are numerous strategies you can use when learning how to calm calm down before a presentation, soothe your nerves and cultivate a sense of calm before taking the stage.

From practical preparation tips to mindset shifts and physical strategies, the path to a stress-free presentation starts with simple yet effective calming techniques.

By exploring these methods, you can navigate the world of public speaking with ease and confidence, ensuring that your next presentation is a success.

Here are 14 ways for how to calm down before a presentation: 

• Prepare Ahead of Time
• Practice, Practice, Practice
• Use Visualization to Imagine Success
• Repeat Positive Affirmations
• Strike a Power Pose
• Practice Breathing Exercises
• Prioritize Self-Care
• Do a Venue Walk-Through
• Get Physical
• Stay Hydrated
• Talk to a Loved One
• Listen to Calming Music
• Get Grounded
• Focus on Your Message

#1 – Prepare Ahead of Time

Knowing how to prepare for a speech , and rehearsing multiple times before the real event, can help you feel confident and calm on stage. 

Additionally, preparing for any technical difficulties is also important in case issues arise. Having technical backups in place, such as extra batteries or a backup USB drive, provides a sense of security and preparedness in case of any unforeseen issues. 

#2 – Practice, Practice, Practice

Familiarize yourself with your speech content by practicing it repeatedly. The more comfortable you are with the material, the more confident you’ll feel when delivering it. 

Giving a high-stakes presentation, delivering a speech in front of an audience, or engaging in any other kind of public speaking opportunity, can be scary. You may feel a loss of control or uncertainty – imaging worse-case scenarios, or have a fear of being judged. 

To combat this, it’s essential that you regain your sense of control by doing what you can to rehearse as much as possible. Then, when the real presentation happens, it’ll feel like just another rehearsal!

#3 – Use Visualization to Imagine Success

Take a few moments to visualize yourself giving a successful speech. Imagine yourself speaking confidently, engaging the audience, and receiving positive feedback. 

Visualization exercises can help build your confidence and reduce anxiety, so that you can calm down before the presentation. 

Visualization engages multiple cognitive processes simultaneously, enhancing comprehension and retention. By creating mental images of your success, you can activate your brain’s sensory areas and mimic positive feelings before your presentation.

Boost your confidence and mental attitude before a presentation by recalling past successful presentations and emphasizing the value you offer to the audience.

#4 – Repeat Positive Affirmations

Repeat positive affirmations to yourself to boost your confidence and calm your nerves. Remind yourself of your strengths, past successes, and capabilities as a speaker. 

Affirmations can help shift your mindset from one of anxiety to one of confidence and self-assurance.

Some positive affirmations you can try out are:

• I am well-prepared and knowledgeable about my topic.
• I am confident in my abilities to deliver this presentation effectively.
• My audience is interested in what I have to say, and I will engage them with my words.
• I am calm, composed, and in control of my nerves.
• I believe in myself and my message, and I convey it with passion and authenticity.
• I am grateful for the opportunity to share my ideas and inspire others.
• I trust in my ability to handle any questions or challenges that may arise during the presentation.
• I radiate enthusiasm and positivity, which captivates my audience.
• Each word I speak is delivered with clarity, impact, and conviction.
• I embrace any feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

#5 – Strike a Power Pose

A quick hack for how to calm down before a presentation is to strike a power pose. This can help you to exude confidence and authority, helping you feel more in control. 

Never heard of the power pose? It’s basically like channeling your inner superhero before diving into something daunting, like a big presentation or a nerve-wracking interview. Think standing tall, hands on hips, chest out – the whole superhero vibe.

Here are a few examples:

• The Superman/Superwoman: Feet shoulder-width apart, hands on hips, chin up.
• The Wonder Woman: Legs slightly apart, arms crossed in front of chest.
• The Victory V: Feet hip-width apart, arms raised in a V shape overhead, with a big smile.
• The CEO: Lean back in your chair, hands behind your head, legs crossed comfortably.

These poses aren’t just for show; they’re proven to boost confidence and presence. So, next time you’re feeling a bit shaky, strike a power pose and watch your confidence soar!

#6 – Practice Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises can also aid in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

When you’re feeling those pre-presentation jitters, your body tends to tense up, and your breathing can become shallow and rapid. This can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and make it harder to focus.

However, engaging in intentional diaphramatic breathing exercises can help calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and bring a sense of relaxation.

You can also try certain voice exercises for speakers to strengthen your voice, and avoid any shakiness as you deliver your speech.

Here are some breathing exercises to help you calm down before a presentation:

• Deep Breathing: Deep breathing, also known as diaphragmatic or belly breathing, involves taking slow, deep breaths that fully expand your lungs and engage your diaphragm. This activates the body’s relaxation response, lowering heart rate and blood pressure.
• 4-7-8 Breathing: Inhale through your nose for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 7, then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 8. This technique helps regulate breathing and induces a state of calm.
• Box Breathing: Inhale deeply for a count of 4, hold your breath for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts, and then hold your breath again for 4 counts before repeating the cycle. This method encourages rhythmic breathing and can quickly reduce feelings of anxiety.
• Alternate Nostril Breathing : Close one nostril with your thumb and inhale deeply through the other nostril. Then, close the other nostril with your ring finger and exhale through the first nostril. Repeat this process, alternating nostrils with each breath. This technique balances energy and promotes relaxation.

These breathing exercises can be done discreetly anytime, anywhere, and incorporating them into your routine before a presentation or nerve-wracking event can significantly reduce anxiety and improve your performance. 

#7 – Prioritize Self-Care

Before your presentation, it’s important to prioritize self-care practices. This includes things like getting enough rest, eating well, and staying hydrated to support your overall well-being.

Tip: Limit your intake of caffeine before the presentation, as it can increase feelings of anxiety and nervousness.

#8 – Do a Venue Walk-Through Beforehand (If Possible)

A venue walkthrough allows you to familiarize yourself with the presentation space, reducing potential last-minute stressors.

If time allows, try to schedule a venue walk-through a few days before the event. If time or the situation doesn’t permit this, try to arrive to your speaking event early on the day of. 

If you’re not able to schedule a physical walk-through, try doing an internet search for your venue, so you can watch any videos or observe any photos of what the space might look like.

As you do your walk-through, take note of the following:

• Layout and Seating Arrangement: Observe the layout of the room and the seating arrangement. Determine where you’ll be positioned during your presentation and how the audience will be seated.
• Lighting and Visibility: Assess the lighting in the room to ensure that you’ll be clearly visible to the audience. Check for any glare or shadows that could affect visibility, especially how it could effect your Powerpoint or Keynote slides .
• Stage or Speaking Area: Familiarize yourself with the stage or speaking area, including any podium or lectern, as well as the positioning of chairs or tables.
• Room Temperature: Take note of the room temperature and adjust it if necessary to ensure comfort for both yourself and the audience.
• Emergency Exits: Locate the emergency exits and familiarize yourself with the evacuation procedures in case of an emergency.
• Amenities: Identify the location of amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and any designated areas for breaks or networking.

#9 – Get Physical

Before your presentation, engaging in physical activities like a brisk walk or quick workout can help release tension and boost endorphins, contributing to a sense of calmness and readiness. 

Additionally, incorporating muscle relaxation techniques, such as stretching or yoga, can help alleviate physical tension before presenting.

Try moving along to this video, which includes yoga poses specifically for calming nerves .

#10 – Stay Hydrated

It’s crucial to prioritize water intake to prevent dry mouth caused by nerves, ensuring optimal vocal performance.

Drinking something hydrating can also help you calm your pre-presentation jitters – so make sure to have a water bottle handy on the day of your presentation!

Remember to avoid consuming caffeine or energy drinks right before the presentation to prevent potential jitters or heightened nervousness.

#11 – Talk to a Loved One

Seek support from your friends, family, or colleagues to boost your confidence and provide encouragement. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in how you feel before presenting.

By getting support from people you love, you’ll feel less alone and more confident, by boosting your feelings of belonging and having a sense of community. 

#12 – Listen to Calming Music

Listening to calming music can also help relax your mind and body before stepping on stage. 

This is one of the best hacks for how to calm down before a presentation, especially if it’s right before you present. Try listening to calming music right before you go on stage.

Calming music can help by triggering physiological responses in your body that promote relaxation. Slow-tempo music with soft melodies and gentle rhythms can lower heart rate, reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and promote deeper breathing, all of which contribute to a sense of calmness and tranquility.

Additionally, music has the power to distract your mind from anxious thoughts, allowing you to focus on the soothing sounds and creating a more peaceful mental state.

Here’s a calming music playlist you can save for later.

The most calming genres to listen to to calm down before a presentation include:

• Nature sounds (such as ocean waves, rain, or bird songs)

#13 – Get Grounded

A grounding technique is a mindfulness practice that can help you stay present and centered before your presentation. It involves engaging the senses to focus attention on the physical environment, which can help alleviate feelings of anxiety or nervousness.

By anchoring yourself in the present moment, you can calm nerves before a presentation by reducing the focus on fear of the future.

During a grounding exercise, you may be guided to:

• Focus on your breath , paying attention to the sensations of inhaling and exhaling.
• Notice your surroundings , identifying specific objects you can see, touch, hear, or smell.
• Engage in physical movements, such as tapping your fingers or gently stretching.
• Use visualization techniques, such as imagining yourself in a peaceful or comforting place, to evoke feelings of calmness and tranquility.

#14 – Focus on the Big Picture

Sometimes we can get tunnel vision when our fear and anxiety take over. Before a presentation, when you find your mind and body wandering and feeling stressed about the upcoming presentation, remind yourself of the big picture. Remember why you are doing this. 

It’s also helpful to shift your focus away from yourself and onto the audience. Remember that they are there to listen to your message and are likely supportive of your efforts. Focus on delivering value to your audience and meeting their needs rather than worrying about your own performance.

Learning how to calm down before a presentation will help you focus on the moment, focus on the moment, and feel accomplished. 

Remember, calming your nerves before a presentation is all about preparation, mindset, and taking care of yourself physically.

By rehearsing, staying positive, and utilizing these coping strategies, you can boost your confidence and feel more at ease.

With these techniques, you’ll be ready to tackle any presentation with confidence and composure.

You got this! 

Check out more great articles from the Thought-Leader Blog covering TEDx Talks, success mindsets, and everything else in between

How to Get a TED Talk

How to prepare a ted talk, how to market yourself effectively, how to become a keynote speaker, how to speak professionally.

• Dec 5, 2023

Navigating Presentations When You're Not the Expert - 3 Key Strategies

Last week, I talked about the Expert's Dilemma . What about the opposite? Do you know that feeling where your stomach flips when you are asked to present something where you do not feel you have enough expertise? A year ago, I was asked to talk about Sustainability Regulation. All I could think about were some of my colleagues who know so much more than I do.

We've all been there – tasked with presenting a topic we're not fully versed in. It's a common scenario in the fast-paced world of business and innovation. But here's the secret: you don't have to be an expert to deliver a powerful presentation. With the right approach, you can turn this challenge into a unique opportunity to connect with your audience. Here are three concrete strategies to help you present effectively, even when you're not the expert.

1. Embrace the Power of Learning - Become a Conduit of Knowledge

Dive into a learning mindset. Your role is to be a conduit of information, not the source. Before your presentation, do a deep dive into the subject. Read articles, watch videos, or talk to experts. This builds understanding and lets you present the most current and relevant information. Remember, it's not about knowing everything – it's about understanding the key points well enough to communicate them effectively.

2. Simplify and Clarify - Complexity Is Not Queen

One common mistake non-experts make is overcomplicating the content to appear knowledgeable. Instead, aim for clarity and simplicity. Break down the topic into digestible pieces. Use analogies or stories to explain complex ideas. This approach makes your presentation more engaging and shows that you have a grasp of the subject, even if you're not a seasoned expert.

3. Engage and Interact - Turn the Presentation into an Engaging Conversation

Turn your presentation into a two-way conversation. Engaging with your audience can compensate for any lack of depth in your expertise. Pose questions, encourage feedback, and admit when you don't have an answer – this can often lead to valuable discussions and insights. This strategy makes your presentation more dynamic and builds trust and rapport with your audience. You're with them on this journey.

Image by Taylor Brandon on Unsplash

So what did I do with that task on regulation? I used a metaphor about herding cattle on horseback with my dad as a kid. Yup, true story. I referred to the role of the various outriders and that we need to be clear about who is doing what for whom with which intention and why. People still mention that story to me a year later.

Presenting as a non-expert can feel daunting, but it's also an incredible opportunity for growth and learning. You can deliver a presentation that resonates and informs by focusing on learning, simplifying your message, and engaging with your audience. The time you invest in these three steps is already a value-add for others. Remember, expertise isn't just about what you know – it's about how effectively you can share what you've learned.

Recent Posts

Dressing for the Spotlight - Style on Stage

Navigating Difficult Conversations - Strategies for Success

Capturing Hearts and Minds - How to Balance Credibility and Vulnerability as a Speaker

RESTEZ INFORMÉ

Thanks for submitting!

15 things you should do in the 15 minutes before a big presentation

"The human brain starts working the moment you are born and never stops until you stand up to speak in public." —George Jessel

You have to give a big, important presentation in just 15 minutes. Your heart is racing, your palms are damp — you're starting to panic.

It's completely normal. In fact, most speakers, beginners and veterans alike, readily admit to feeling nervous in the moments leading up to a big speech or presentation.

Darlene Price, president, of Well Said, Inc. and author of " Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results ," tells Business Insider that instead of trying to lose the butterflies, you should aim to leverage them. "The adrenaline surge can fuel your body with the energy and enthusiasm necessary for a great performance," she explains.

Whether you're stepping to the front of the room to speak to just a few people, or making a grand entrance in a ballroom to address thousands, here are 15 ways to effectively use the 15 minutes before you go up to prepare your body and mind for peak performance:

1. Talk positively to yourself

Claim your success before you begin, Price says.

"Let's learn from the experts in sports psychology. They've proven that an athlete's positive self-talk prior to and during a performance consistently creates a higher win rate," she explains.

In the minutes leading up to your presentation, say over and over within yourself, "I am a dynamic speaker!" "I am enthusiastic and engaging!" "I am prepared and confident!"

"Write your own set of self-affirmations and confidently declare them," she advises. "Your words will create a self-fulling prophecy."

2. Use the restroom

"First thing's first," Price says. "Needing the toilet when you wouldn't normally 'have to go' is a common reaction to anxiety and pre-speech jitters. Why take chances? Plan ahead and use the restroom in the moments prior to going on stage."

3. Check yourself out in the mirror

There's nothing worse than wondering, "Do I have something in my teeth?" as you take the stage.

To ease any potential concerns about your physical appearance you might have as you begin your presentation, you should take a quick look in the mirror before you start. This way, you'll have one less thing to worry about (and be distracted by!). 

4. Meet and greet the audience before you speak

Shake hands and talk with as many people as possible ahead of time. "This shows the audience you're approachable and personable," Price explains.

"You may even learn a few names, issues, and stories to weave into your presentation. Plus, having conversations with your listeners ahead of time transforms scary 'public' speaking into natural, relaxed 'personal' speaking."

5. Check out the meeting room and audiovisual set-up

As the speaker, be sure you know the environment, including the seating arrangement, presentation electronics, microphone, and lighting.

Get to the room early and ensure you're comfortable with the set-up. "This step shows the audience you're prepared and helps ensure your presentation runs smoothly," she says.  

6. Take several deep belly breaths

Since anxiety tightens the muscles in the chest and throat, it's important to diminish that restricting effect with deep inhalations, Price explains.

Don't underestimate the power of a long, slow, deep breath. "It maximizes the amount of oxygen that flows to the lungs and brain; interrupts the adrenalin-pumping 'fight or flight' response; and triggers the body's normal relaxation response," she says. In the moments leading up to your presentation, breathe deeply and deliberately.

7. Practice the first minute in your mind

Whatever you're planning to say as the captivating opener — a witty quotation, personal story, or startling statistic — rehearse the first few sentences several times, Price suggests. Knowing exactly how you're going to start gives you confidence, enables you to look directly into the eyes of audience members as you begin (not at notes or a slide), and creates a powerful first impression.

8. Focus on positive thoughts and images

"Harnessing the power of the mind-body connection means that you can learn to use your thoughts to positively influence your body's physical responses," Price says.

As a result, you can decrease stress and increase a sense of well being and control, just by holding positive thoughts and images in your mind.

For example, replace the thought, "I'm so nervous and unprepared I'm going to bomb," with a positive statement such as, "I'm an expert on my topic," "I'm enthusiastic and engaging," or, "I'm credible and confident."

9. Sip water that is either warm or room temperature, with lemon if possible

"This helps with dry-mouth, cuts through mucus buildup in the mouth, and clears the throat," Price says. Avoid cold food and drinks, dairy products, and carbonated beverages — and ensure a glass or bottle of water is within arm's reach during your speech.

10. Acknowledge the three audience truths

Prior to speaking, tell yourself:

"This audience believes I am the expert."   The audience perceives you as a recognized authority simply because you're the one speaking, she explains. "Plus, you know more than they do about the topic."

"They want me to succeed." Audiences are rooting for you. They want and expect you to add value; to be interesting, engaging, and informative otherwise the presentation is a waste of their time, says Price.

"They don't know what I'm going to say." If you make an error, don't announce it or apologize, just keep going. "The audience will never know."

11. Exercise lightly

In a private setting beforehand, do some light stretching, a few knee-bends, or take a brisk walk down the hall and back. "This rids the body of excess energy and sends oxygen to the brain," she says.

12. Assume a standing position in the five minutes prior to speaking

If you're the host or only speaker, you'll be standing anyway. However, if you're one of several speakers on the agenda, and your turn is coming up in five minutes, simply step to the back of the room and stand, or stand up if you're backstage.

"The sitting position is motionless, passive, and inactive. By standing, you summon energy ahead of time, give your body a chance to warm up, and place yourself in a posture ready for action."

While you're at it, strike a "power pose."

Harvard psychologist Amy Cuddy describes power poses as expansive and open stances where you take up a lot of space and hold your arms and legs away from your body, reports Business Insider's Rachel Gillett. 

When you expand your body, Cuddy tells Business Insider , "your mind starts to feel more confident and powerful — it starts to see those challenging situations not as threats but as opportunities."

13. Avoid your phone

Don't scroll through social media, read the news, or listen to voice messages minutes before your big presentation. It may  seem like a good distraction, but if you see, hear, or read something upsetting, for example, it might throw you off. 

14. Focus on giving

Did you get overwhelmingly nervous the last time you gave a birthday gift to a friend? Probably not. You may have felt anticipation, excitement, even joy, but not anxiety, Price says.

"As a speaker, think about your presentation as a gift to the audience; a nicely wrapped package full of valuable information, helpful ideas and meaningful content. The mental attitude of giving empowers you and frees you. It takes your mind off of yourself and puts the focus on helping others."

Maintain a positive, pleasant expression on your face in the moments before you speak.

"Smiling actually relaxes the body. Physiologically, smiling emits endorphins in the brain that calms the nerves, creates a pleasant attitude, and promotes a sense of well being," she says.

Plus, a smile conveys confidence and self-assurance. It shows your audience that you're happy to see them and enthusiastic about your message.

• Main content

📞 Call Now   800.403.6598 Contact Us - Get Started

No products in the cart.

7 Things You Need to do Before a Presentation

A presentation is more than just an opportunity to explain a position or idea; it’s a means to demonstrate the hard work and research you’ve invested into it. And when it comes to preparing for a presentation—any presentation—you need to remember that the way you deliver your presentation is just as important (perhaps even more so) than the actual content.

Yes, that’s right. What you say isn’t necessarily as important as how you say it .

Think back to the last really good presentation you heard. I mean, the one that had you thinking about it for days afterwards. What made it so compelling? Why did it motivate or inspire you?

I’ll tell you why: Because the speaker engaged you .  That was no accident! He or she didn’t walk up to the podium and wing it.

How to Prepare for a Presentation?

There’s a ton of preparation that goes on behind the scenes of an amazing presentation. We know because it’s our business to teach you the fundamentals of public speaking. What you may not realize is the preparation stage goes further than just jotting down some notes and practising in front of a mirror. A stellar presentation takes a lot of time, a lot of energy, and… oh yes… a lot of practice. Here are seven key things you need to do before any presentation:

• Do Your Research —Regardless of whether or not you are an expert in your field, there is always something new to learn. Do a thorough investigation before plotting your presentation to see if there are any new developments that could be relevant to your subject or to your audience. And make sure you really know your material. It will eliminate the dreaded “umms” and “uhs” that we’ve all come to hate. It’s a sure sign you’re not as knowledgeable or prepared as you should be.
• Know Your Audience —No two presentations should ever be the same. I don’t care if it’s the 12th time this month that you’ve talked about the same subject. You may not have to start from scratch every time, but at least put the effort into finding out who’s going to be in your audience and tailor your presentation in a way that will appeal to them. The same jokes you told a business crowd at a breakfast meeting are probably going to fall flat with your daughter and her fellow third-graders on Career Day.
• Craft Your Notes —Here’s a good rule of thumb: If you can’t do your presentation without it being written down, you probably can’t do it at all. Don’t write a speech. Ever. Instead, craft notes to jog your memory on your speaking points. Glance at them periodically to keep you on track. Take those notes and practice with them every day until you don’t need them anymore. (But take them with you anyway… people tend to get forgetful in front of a crowd.)
• Practice Your Delivery —Your notes will help you prepare what you are going to say, but I’ve already told you what you say doesn’t keep a crowd engaged. So grab a video camera, your cell phone… anything with a video recording option and get in front of it. Record yourself delivering your presentation and give yourself an honest critique: Do you use effective body language? Do you walk around and interact with the crowd? How is your posture? If you can’t give yourself an honest critique, enlist a friend or family member to take a look and point out areas for improvement. Then practice, practice, practice.
• Dress For Success —As I mentioned before, every bit of a great presentation is intentional, including the speaker’s choice of clothing. Take special attention the next time you see someone speaking (usually a politician) who’s trying to appeal to blue-collar workers. Do you know what they’ll be wearing? A blue-collared shirt with their sleeves rolled up. Your attire should match the audience. Wearing a tuxedo to deliver a speech at a ground-breaking ceremony for a new chemical plant just doesn’t make sense.
• Get a Good Night’s Sleep —Make sure you look alert and refreshed by getting plenty of rest the night before a presentation. A drowsy mind is a forgetful mind. And the bags under your eyes won’t do you any good, either.
• Prepare Your Space —Arrive with enough time ahead of your presentation to properly prepare the space you’ll be using. Make sure your slides are in order and that any equipment you’ll be using is functioning properly to avoid embarrassing hiccups and delays during your presentation. Place your speaking notes in a logical spot and get yourself a glass of water. Spend a few quiet minutes mentally preparing.

Be the speaker that has inspired you. Think back to the speeches you’ve heard or the people who’ve appealed to you and strive to make that same connection with your audience. Preparation is key. There’s no such thing as an off-the-cuff winning presentation, so invest some time into yourself and your audience. And of course, we’re always here to help when you need to spend a little extra time brushing up on your skills.

Have you ever had a presentation or speech that you were completely unprepared for? Let us know in the comment section below, and if this topic has helped you, share it on social media to help those in your circles as well!

10 Comments

I need to spend more time preparing for presentations than I do.  I used to prepare more but i think I;m getting lazy the older I get.

I love how you touched on knowing your audience. A lot of people tend to forget this and in turn, end up being forgettable. You want to really connect with who you are speaking to in order to be remembered and thought about after the presentation is over. I have talked to many people who will touch on all the point mentioned but tuning yourself to your audience. 

I agree with John. I have gotten a little lazy and probably a lot boring because I’ve done my presentation so many times. I need to revisit what prep looks like. Thanks

I’ve tried ‘winging it’ only to discover I looked pretty foolish. Preparation is the key.

Off-the-cuff is definitely not good. I think we’ve all tried that strategy (and failed).

I disagree, some people need a script just to take a dump. That’s not me. I don’t work well with scripts, they’re too confining, and my best presentations have been off the top of my head. I am an improver and always will be.

I liked the point about dressing for success. People put so much thought into what they’re going to say. They don’t think about what their outfit says.

People don’t realize just how much of a benefit a good night’s sleep can be. It’s not something you’d expect to help your public speaking, but it makes a lot of sense.

Really happy to read this blog. its valuable information for me ,thank you

Wonderful article! We are linking to this great article on our site. Keep up the great writing.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Fears & Misconceptions of Public Speaking →

Mastering the Art of Handling Tough Questions

Public speaking is an art form that requires not only strong presentation skills, but also the ability to adapt and think on your feet. No matter how well you prepare, unexpected questions or challenges from the audience can arise and threaten to derail your carefully crafted message.

With this in mind, mastering effective communication strategies and honing your problem-solving abilities are crucial for maintaining control of any presentation situation.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of tactics for handling objections, fostering audience engagement, and overcoming difficult scenarios during Q&A sessions so that you can become a more resilient and confident speaker.

Key Takeaways

• Engage your audience from the start by presenting your topic in an interesting way and setting clear guidelines for the Q&A session.
• Active listening , empathy, and transparency are key to responding to tough questions or challenges effectively.
• Using humor, props, or personal stories can be effective tactics to grab and re – engage your audience when faced with unexpected questions or challenges.
• Being prepared with well – researched facts and figures ahead of time and anticipating potential objections or criticisms during planning stages can boost confidence in handling unexpected questions.

Strategies For Handling Unexpected Questions And Challenges From The Audience

To handle unexpected questions and challenges from the audience, presenters can engage their listeners by presenting their topic in an interesting way and setting clear guidelines for the Q&A session.

Presenting The Topic In An Engaging Manner

Capturing your audience’s attention from the start is crucial for a successful presentation. An engaging opening sets the stage and establishes rapport with your listeners, increasing their receptiveness to your message.

Start by sharing a relevant anecdote or an interesting statistic that highlights the importance of your topic.

Another effective way to present in an engaging manner is by using visual aids such as images, graphs, or short videos that complement and reinforce key points. Additionally, incorporating storytelling techniques can make complex ideas more relatable for diverse audiences while helping them retain information better.

Interactive methods like live polls or asking open-ended questions during the presentation keeps everyone on their toes while maintaining their interest throughout. Remember to vary your tone and pace while speaking; use body language effectively to convey emotions and emphasize important parts of your speech.

Setting Guidelines For The Audience

One effective strategy for  handling unexpected questions  and challenges from the audience is to set guidelines for them upfront. As a presenter, it’s important to establish clear expectations for how the Q&A session will be conducted and what types of questions are appropriate.

For example, you might ask the audience to hold their questions until the end or encourage them to write down their inquiries as they come up.

By setting these ground rules early on, you can mitigate potential disruptions during your presentation and ensure that all attendees feel heard and respected. Additionally, it helps provide structure for your responses when those questions do arise so that you don’t get too sidetracked by off-topic or irrelevant inquiries.

Addressing The “Why” Questions

One of the most challenging types of questions that presenters can face are the “why” questions. These questions seek to understand why a particular point was made or why a certain approach was taken, and can be difficult to answer if the presenter hasn’t fully thought through their reasoning.

When faced with a “why” question, it’s important for presenters to take a moment to collect their thoughts before responding.

For example, if presenting on a new marketing strategy for a product, an audience member might ask “Why did you choose this particular platform over others?” The presenter could address this by explaining how they conducted extensive research on various platforms and found that this one had higher engagement rates among target demographics.

Active Listening And Empathy

Effective communication with the audience requires active listening and empathy. Actively listening to questions from the audience helps presenters to understand their concerns and needs, allowing them to provide tailored responses that are likely to be more engaging.

It is important for speakers to show empathy by acknowledging emotions and experiences of their listeners while responding to questions or challenges.

For example, if an attendee asks a question about how a product works improperly, instead of jumping straight into the technicalities of it, good active listener notes the frustration in their voice and acknowledges it before providing an answer that addresses both the concern and frustration.

Going For The Unexpected

When facing unexpected questions or challenges from the audience, sometimes going for the unexpected can be a game-changer. Injecting humor, using props, or telling a personal story are examples of ways to grab and re-engage your audience.

It is essential to be strategic when choosing these tactics as they must align with your presentation’s overall tone and message.

Anecdotes or stories also work well in humanizing presentations and making them memorable. They help illustrate points while keeping the audience engaged. A presenter might share an experience that made them passionate about their subject matter or narrate how they overcame obstacles related to their presentation’s content.

Techniques For Responding To Tough Questions Or Challenges

– When facing tough questions or challenges, presenters can acknowledge and clarify the question or concern to show that they understand it.

Acknowledging And Clarifying The Question Or Concern

One of the first things presenters should do when faced with a tough question or challenge is to acknowledge and clarify the concern. This shows that you are paying attention to the audience and willing to address their concerns head-on.

For example, if someone asks a difficult question about statistics in your presentation, start your response by acknowledging their concern with something like “That’s an excellent point,” before clarifying their questions for everyone else: “So what you’re asking is how we can trust our statistical models given so many variables at play?” By doing this, not only do you show empathy towards your audience but it also allows everyone in attendance to be on the same page when answering it.

Reframing The Question

When faced with a tough or unexpected question, one effective technique to handle it is by reframing the question. Instead of directly answering the question as presented, rephrasing it can help in clarifying and understanding what the audience member is really asking for.

By doing this, not only do you show that you’re attentive and willing to engage with your audience’s concerns but also redirecting their focus on what sets your product apart from others in its category.

Providing Evidence And Examples

Presenters often face tough questions or challenges that can put them in a difficult spot. Providing evidence and examples is an effective technique for responding to such situations.

For example, if someone challenges the effectiveness of a new product being launched by asking for proof of its success rate, providing testimonials from satisfied customers or results from user tests could help address their concerns.

By coming equipped with well-researched facts and figures ahead of time and anticipating potential objections or criticisms during planning stages, presenters can feel more confident in handling unexpected questions from audiences.

Being Honest And Transparent

Another effective strategy for handling unexpected questions and challenges during a presentation is to be honest and transparent in your responses. If you don’t know the answer or are unsure about something, it’s better to admit it rather than making up an answer that could potentially damage your credibility as a speaker.

When faced with tough questions or criticisms, it’s important to provide evidence and examples that support your viewpoint while still acknowledging other perspectives. This type of transparency can demonstrate respect for differing opinions while also strengthening your own position.

Incorporating honesty and transparency into your communication style can elevate your public speaking skills by fostering connection and authenticity with the audience.

Redirecting The Question

Redirecting the question is a valuable technique for public speakers when responding to difficult or irrelevant questions from the audience. It involves acknowledging the original question, but then skillfully pivoting to a related topic that still addresses the underlying concern of the person asking.

A good example of this technique in action is when former President Barack Obama was questioned during his 2015 State of the Union address about why gas prices were so low.

Instead of getting bogged down in technical details about oil production, he redirected the conversation by focusing on how Americans could take advantage of lower energy costs to invest in infrastructure and renewable energy sources.

By using techniques like redirecting questions, public speakers can keep their audiences engaged, respond effectively to unexpected challenges or objections, and communicate their messages more effectively overall.

Preparing For Potential Problems When Presenting

Researching common questions and criticisms.

One of the best ways to prepare for potential challenges during a presentation is to  research common questions  and criticisms beforehand. This will give presenters an idea of what their audience might be curious or concerned about, allowing them to prepare thoughtful and informed responses ahead of time.

For example, if presenting on the benefits of a vegan diet, researching common criticisms around protein intake or lack thereof can aid in creating a well-rounded response during the Q&A session.

Anticipating Objections Or Criticisms

One of the most effective ways to handle unexpected questions or challenges from the audience is by anticipating objections or criticisms before making a presentation. This requires thorough research and an understanding of your audience’s perspective.

Preparing for these potential objections or criticisms allows you to develop effective responses that address them head-on rather than being caught off guard. For example, if presenting on a controversial topic, it may be helpful to anticipate opposing viewpoints and craft persuasive arguments in advance.

By taking time to prepare for potential objections or criticisms ahead of time, presenters can confidently respond when challenged during presentations while maintaining their credibility with their audience.

Practicing Responses To Challenging Questions

One of the best ways to handle unexpected questions or challenges from the audience is to be prepared. This means practicing responses to potential tricky questions and familiarizing yourself with different scenarios.

Practicing your responses can involve role-playing with colleagues, brainstorming solutions, and researching commonly asked questions related to your topic. You can also use past experiences as examples for how to approach challenging situations during presentations.

By doing this, you’ll not only improve your critical thinking skills but will also keep things fluid when handling difficult moments during Q&A sessions.

Developing A Backup Plan Or Contingency Strategy

As a public speaker, it’s essential to have a backup plan or contingency strategy in case something goes wrong during your presentation. This can be anything from technical difficulties with your equipment to losing track of your train of thought.

It’s crucial to practice responses to challenging questions, so you feel confident when they come up. Developing a backup plan or contingency strategy will allow you to stay calm and focused, even if unexpected issues arise during your presentation.

Additionally, having an adaptable approach and being able to improvise on the spot will show your audience that you’re knowledgeable and well-prepared for any situation that comes up.

Examples Of Addresing Unexpected Questions And Challenges

Controversial or sensitive topics.

When it comes to  controversial or sensitive topics , presenters need to be prepared for the audience’s reaction. They may encounter opposition or even hostility from some members of their audience.

Presenters can use examples, statistics, and authoritative sources to support their argument. If possible, they can also share personal stories that help humanize their point of view.

It is crucial to maintain professionalism at all times during a presentation regardless of how charged the atmosphere becomes during questions or challenges from the audience.

Technical Or Specialized Questions

Handling technical or specialized questions requires a different approach and level of expertise than other types of questions. It is important for presenters to thoroughly research the topic beforehand and be prepared to answer technical queries confidently.

For instance, if you’re presenting on cloud computing services, you might receive some in-depth questions regarding data security protocols or encryption measures. In such cases, it’s crucial that presenters not only understand the query but can communicate an adequate response in relatable language .

One smart technique when handling technical inquiries is to use visual aids like charts and diagrams to assist with your explanation. Navigating complex topics may take time; therefore, every presenter must know how to manage delicate situations while maintaining audience engagement simultaneously.

Challenging Assumptions Or Beliefs

Challenging assumptions or beliefs can be a difficult but important aspect of presenting. It requires both critical thinking skills and excellent communication techniques to respectfully challenge someone’s worldview without offending them.

One way to do this is by acknowledging their perspective before offering an alternative viewpoint backed up by evidence or examples. Presenters can use storytelling , humor, or analogies to help the audience understand the new perspective in a non-threatening way.

For example, if addressing climate change denial, the presenter could start with a personal story about how they used to believe that climate change wasn’t real until they saw melting glaciers on a family vacation.

Personal Attacks Or Criticism

Public speaking can be intimidating, especially when facing unexpected personal attacks or criticism from the audience. It’s important to remember that these attacks or criticisms are not a reflection of your worth as a speaker.

One strategy for handling personal attacks or criticism is to remain calm and composed. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational, as this could escalate the situation further.

Instead, take a moment to acknowledge the concern and clarify any misunderstandings.

It’s essential to maintain empathy towards your audience while addressing personal attacks or criticism. This means actively listening and striving to understand their perspective while still assertively defending yours.

In conclusion, dealing with personal attacks and criticism requires preparation, confidence, and communication skills .

Conclusion: Handling Challenging Questions

Handling unexpected questions and challenges from the audience is an integral part of any successful presentation. Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but preparation, confidence, and communication skills are key to handling these situations effectively.

By adopting effective strategies such as engaging your audience, being transparent, active listening & empathy while providing evidence-based examples will help you succeed in answering tough questions or challenges during Q&A sessions.

With a backup plan in place to deal with potential problems that may arise during a presentation – both online or off – presenters can successfully navigate difficult situations and earn the respect of their audiences.

1. What should I do if I’m faced with a question or challenge from the audience that I am not prepared for?

It is important to remain calm and composed, acknowledge the question or challenge, and take a moment to collect your thoughts before responding. If you are truly stumped and do not know the answer, it is okay to admit that you need more information or time to research before providing an accurate response.

2. How can I anticipate potential questions or challenges from my audience?

To anticipate potential questions or challenges from your audience, put yourself in their shoes and consider what they might be curious about or have concerns over. It can also be helpful to gather feedback ahead of time through surveys, polls, or focus groups.

3. Is it ever appropriate to avoid answering a challenging question from the audience?

While it may be tempting to dodge difficult questions altogether, avoiding them can come off as evasive and untrustworthy. Instead of ignoring challenging inquiries outright, address them head-on by acknowledging any areas of uncertainty while still doing your best to transparently address them.

4. How can facing tough questions help me become a better speaker/presenter?

Facing unexpected questions challenges you as a speaker/presenter by forcing you out of your comfort zone and encouraging quick thinking on your feet–two key skills necessary for persuasive public speaking . Embracing these moments as learning experiences also helps prepare you for future presentations where unpredictable queries arise again!

What to do when you make a mistake in a presentation

Its many people’s worst nightmare – making a mistake whilst giving a presentation.

Written by Nick Smallman • 21 November 2014

Remembering points, trying to use body language, it can all get on top of you, especially if you’re an inexperienced presenter or are giving a complicated presentation. Don’t worry. Everyone makes mistakes when giving presentations , even the best. It’s how you handle it that counts. Whether you’ve said the wrong word, garbled a sentence, or lost your train of thought, the rules are the same.

Common presentation mistakes presenters make:

Presentations can be a great way to share information and ideas, but they can also be incredibly nerve-wracking. To ensure the success of your presentation, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could harm its effectiveness. Here are some of the most frequent presentation mistakes and how you can avoid them:

Not Preparing Enough

Preparation is key when it comes to presentations , and not preparing enough will only lead to problems during delivery. Beforehand, research your topic thoroughly so you have an in-depth understanding of the material you are presenting. It is also beneficial to practice aloud several times before delivering your talk in order for yourself to become comfortable with speaking about the content confidently.

Relying Too Much on Visual Aids:

Visual aids such as slideshows or videos can help support what you are saying during a presentation; however, relying too much on them may distract from your message rather than enhance it. Make sure that any visuals add value by providing additional insight into your discussion points instead of repeating what was already said verbally—otherwise leave them out entirely if they do not contribute anything meaningful towards achieving the goal of the presentation itself!

Being Unprepared for Questions:

Asking questions is a normal part of any successful presentation; therefore, being unprepared for potential inquiries will make it difficult for you to answer effectively or provide relevant information quickly should someone ask something related but unexpected during delivery time! Practice responding to different types ahead so that when someone does pose a question at any point throughout yours–you’ll feel confident answering without hesitation or delay due diligence beforehand might just save face later down line!

Not Engaging Your Audience:

Presentations should be engaging for both speaker and audience alike; otherwise everyone loses interest quickly after just few minutes into it!. To keep people interested in what’s being said try breaking up long segments with interactive activities like polls or Q&A sessions; these tools help foster participation while giving listeners opportunity express their thoughts freely which often leads better comprehension overall purpose behind each respective topic discussed throughout duration entire session itself.

What to do when you make a mistake in a presentation:

Take a breath..

Taking a breath gives you time and can calm your nerves. Pause for as long as you need to and resist the urge to quickly start talking again; begin when you know what you’re going to say makes sense. This stops you from making more panicked mistakes, or from garbling your words, and a pause can make you look thoughtful and in control.

Don’t apologise.

Apologising can reduce your credibility, and make you feel embarrassed. Making a mistake when you’re giving a presentation isn’t going to ruin anyone’s day, and you’ll really just be apologising to yourself. You can acknowledge the mistake, and be sure to correct yourself, but do so and move on.

Own the mistake.

By taking responsibility for a mistake, you appear confident. Tripping up on a word or getting a phrase back-to-front can be quickly solved by a correction, but any informational mistakes should always be corrected. ‘I should say x instead of y,’ or a correction along those lines is effective and isn’t apologising.

Talk To The Audience.

It’s okay to talk to the audience, especially if you’ve forgotten what you just said. Asking the audience what you were saying, or the name of something you’ve forgotten, can often seem planned and inclusive. It’s often a good idea to talk to the audience during your presentation anyway, and doing so can make this trick seamless.

No matter what your mistake, or how you handle it, remain positive and don’t get hung up on it. Mistakes are made by everyone, and are part of becoming a better public speaker.

Back to all insights

Share this article

Sign up for regular updates.

Get our latest insights by subscribing to our newsletter. Each week you'll receive updates helping you to understand and respond to the challenges facing your organisation. We won't share your details with anyone and you can unsubscribe at any time.

More articles for you

High and Low Context Cultures – Intercultural Communication

Culture, Diversity & Ethics

How to Be a Good Team Player at Work

Networking & Personal Brand

Speaking With Conviction

Personal Impact

Speak to us

0800 389 2639, +1 718 421 0200, +852 6025 1101.

Get in touch with our dedicated team to discuss what we can do for you.

Beating Presentation Anxiety: 5 Steps to Speak Confidently

• The Speaker Lab
• April 16, 2024

Table of Contents

Feeling jittery about your next presentation? If so, you’re not alone. Presentation anxiety hits many of us, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. In this article, we’ll dive into what sparks this fear and how it shows up. We’ve got you covered with strategies to prep before your talk, keep cool during the show, and even use tech tools to smooth out those nerves.

If you find that the jitters are negatively impacting your presentations, we have the strategies you need to build confidence. And if you need more help, we’ll point you towards top-notch resources for beating presentation anxiety.

Understanding Presentation Anxiety

Presentation anxiety grips many of us before we step onto the stage. It’s that stomach-churning, sweat-inducing fear of public speaking that can turn even the most prepared speaker into a bundle of nerves. But why does this happen? Let’s break it down.

Common Triggers of Presentation Anxiety

First off, it’s important to know you’re not alone in feeling nervous about presenting. This type of anxiety is incredibly common and stems from various triggers. One major cause is the fear of judgment or negative evaluation by others. No one wants to look foolish or incompetent, especially in front of peers or superiors.

Another trigger is lack of experience. If you haven’t had much practice speaking in public, every presentation might feel like stepping into unknown territory. Then there’s perfectionism; setting impossibly high standards for your performance can make any slight mistake feel disastrous.

How Presentation Anxiety Manifests

The symptoms of presentation anxiety are as varied as they are unpleasant: dry mouth, shaky hands, racing heart—the list goes on. Oftentimes, these physical signs go hand-in-hand with mental ones like blanking out or losing your train of thought mid-sentence. In addition to affecting how you feel physically, anxiety also messes with your confidence levels and self-esteem.

By understanding presentation anxiety better, we realize its grip on us isn’t due to our inability but rather a natural response that can be managed with the right techniques and mindset adjustments.

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

Strategies for Managing Presentation Anxiety Before the Event

Feeling jittery before taking the stage is a common plight, but let’s not let those nerves derail our success. Here are some tried and true strategies to help keep your cool.

Planning Like a Pro

Kicking off with solid planning can be your first line of defense against presentation anxiety. Initiate by segmenting your presentation into digestible sections. This could mean outlining main points or scripting it out entirely, depending on what makes you feel most prepared. A good resource that dives deep into effective planning is Toastmasters International , where you’ll find tips on structuring speeches that resonate.

An equally crucial part of planning involves researching your audience. Understanding who will be in front of you helps tailor your message and anticipate questions they might have, making you feel more confident and connected.

The Power of Practice

You’ve heard it before, but practice really does make perfect—or at least significantly less nervous. Running through your presentation multiple times lets you iron out any kinks and get comfortable with the flow of information. For an extra boost, simulate the actual event as closely as possible by practicing in similar attire or using the same technology you’ll have available during the real deal.

If solo rehearsals aren’t cutting it, try roping in a friend or family member to act as an audience. Not only can they offer valuable feedback, they can also help acclimate you to speaking in front of others—a critical step toward easing anxiety.

Breathing Techniques That Work Wonders

Last but definitely not least: don’t underestimate breathing techniques. They have the power to calm nerves fast when practiced regularly leading up to the big day. Headspace offers guided exercises that focus on controlled breathing methods designed specifically for stress management. These practices encourage mindfulness, which can center thoughts away from anxious feelings towards present tasks—like delivering an outstanding presentation. Incorporating these exercises daily can build resilience against last-minute jitters too.

Techniques During the Presentation

Say you’ve practiced your speech a dozen times but you’re still worried about the big day. What should you do then to beat presentation anxiety? Let’s take a look.

Engage with Your Audience

Talking to a room full of people can feel daunting, especially when you don’t know any of them. But remember, your audience is there because they’re interested in what you have to say. Make eye contact, smile, and ask rhetorical questions to keep them hooked. As you speak, don’t forget about the importance of body language since it communicates just as much as your words.

If you think engagement ends at asking questions, think again. Sharing personal stories or relevant anecdotes helps build a connection. It makes your presentation not just informative but also relatable and memorable.

Maintain Composure Under Pressure

If you’re palms are sweating and your heart is racing, know that it’s okay. Feeling your pulse quicken shows you’re invested in nailing that speech, yet it’s crucial not to let these sensations throw you off track. Practice deep breathing exercises before stepping onto the stage to calm those nerves.

Besides deep breathing, adopting power poses backstage can significantly boost your confidence levels. Although it may sound crazy, this is a tip from social psychologists that has helped many speakers take control of their anxiety. Just check out Amy Cuddy’s TED talk on body language to see for yourself.

Facing unexpected tech glitches or interruptions during your speech is par for the course. Stay calm and use humor if appropriate—it shows professionalism and adaptability.

Free Download: 6 Proven Steps to Book More Paid Speaking Gigs in 2024​

Download our 18-page guide and start booking more paid speaking gigs today!

The Role of Technology in Managing Presentation Anxiety

When giving a presentation, it’s not uncommon for your slides or videos to suddenly turn on you, malfunctioning in some way. However, while technical issues are something to prepare for, they shouldn’t keep you from considering technology an ally against presentation anxiety. Let’s look at some ways that technology can help soothe your public speaking jitters.

Presentation Software Features

Gone are the days when speakers had to rely solely on their memory or paper notes. Modern presentation software not only allows you to create visually appealing slides but also comes with features designed specifically for speaker support. Tools like PowerPoint’s Presenter View or Keynote, give you a behind-the-scenes look at your notes and upcoming slides without showing them to the audience. This lets you stay on track discreetly.

Another gem is interactive polling through platforms such as Mentimeter or Poll Everywhere . Engaging your audience with real-time polls not only keeps them involved but also gives you brief moments to collect your thoughts and breathe.

Stress Management Apps

When it comes to taming those pre-presentation butterflies in your stomach, there’s an app for that too. Meditation apps like Headspace offer quick guided sessions that can be squeezed into any busy schedule. Taking even just five minutes before stepping onstage can significantly calm nerves and improve focus.

Breathing exercises have proven effective in managing stress levels quickly. The beauty of apps like Breathe2Relax , is that they provide structured breathing techniques aimed at reducing anxiety on-the-go. As a result, it’s perfect for those last-minute jitters backstage or right before a webinar starts.

Resources for Further Support

If you’re on a quest to conquer presentation anxiety, you’re not alone. It’s like preparing for a big game; sometimes, you need more than just pep talks. Thankfully, there are plenty of available aids out there to help support you on your journey.

Books That Speak Volumes

Finding the right book can be a lifesaver. “Confessions of a Public Speaker” by Scott Berkun gives an insider look at the highs and lows of public speaking with humor and wisdom. Another gem is “TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking” by Chris Anderson, which pulls back the curtain on what makes talks memorable.

Beyond books, consider immersing yourself in stories of others who’ve walked this path before. A great way to do this is through podcasts or audiobooks focusing on overcoming fears and embracing confidence.

Professional Services: When You Need A Team

Sometimes self-help isn’t enough; maybe what you really need is someone in your corner guiding each step. That’s where expert coaches come in. These mentors can craft plans tailored uniquely to your situation, ensuring you’re equipped for every challenge.

Here at The Speaker Lab you’ll find plenty of resources and help if you’re looking to master the art of public speaking while tackling anxieties head-on.

Together, all these resources have one thing in common: they empower speakers at any stage of their journey towards becoming confident communicators ready to tackle any audience.

FAQs on Overcoming Presentation Anxiety

How do i overcome anxiety when presenting.

Practice your talk, know your stuff, and take deep breaths. Confidence grows with preparation and experience.

Why am I anxious about public speaking?

Fear of judgment or messing up in front of others triggers this anxiety. It’s our brain on high alert.

What is anxiety presentation?

Presentation anxiety is that jittery feeling before speaking publicly. It stems from fear of failure or negative evaluation.

What can I take for presentation anxiety?

Talk to a doctor first but beta-blockers or natural remedies like chamomile tea might help ease the jitters safely.

Feeling nervous before a presentation is common. However overwhelming it might feel, know that mastering this fear is possible. Remember: practice makes perfect. By prepping ahead of time and getting familiar with your content, you can dial down the nerves.

As you’re in the spotlight, make sure to maintain a lively interaction with those watching. This builds confidence on the spot. Tech tools are there for help too. They can streamline your preparation and delivery process significantly.

Don’t be shy about asking for more info if you’re looking for something specific. We’re here to help and make sure you find exactly what you need. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out there and nail that presentation!

• Last Updated: April 11, 2024

Explore Related Resources

Learn How You Could Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig In 90 Days or Less

We receive thousands of applications every day, but we only work with the top 5% of speakers .

Book a call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

If you’re ready to control your schedule, grow your income, and make an impact in the world – it’s time to take the first step. Book a FREE consulting call and let’s get you Booked and Paid to Speak ® .

About The Speaker Lab

We teach speakers how to consistently get booked and paid to speak.  Since 2015, we’ve helped thousands of speakers find clarity, confidence, and a clear path to make an impact.

Get Started

Let's connect.

[email protected]

Copyright ©2023 The Speaker Lab. All rights reserved.

Presentation Mistakes: 3 Ways to Handle Yours

We all make mistakes.

We all make presentation mistakes. Sometimes we don’t realize we’ve made them until it’s too late. Sometimes the presentation mistakes don’t get noticed by others, and sometimes they do. You may have experienced the following: you are in the middle of a presentation when you realize the information on your next slide is wrong. What do you do? Continue presenting the information as though nothing is out of the ordinary? Admit that there is a mistake? Use a little humor and turn it into a test to see if anyone can spot the mistake?

3 reasons to prevent the audience from pointing out presentation mistakes

• You stay in control. If you point it out you are in control of the situation. You are only human and you can address it in a way that you think works best for your personality.
• You can stop questions that might annoy you.   Unfortunately there are some people who delight in picking holes in things. There are others who are more interested in the accuracy of details than in the bigger picture. Someone who is concerned about accuracy will be upset about the fact that, e.g. all the nouns in a headline do not start with a capital, and may chose to point this out. If you’re a big picture kind of person, you will not understand why the other person felt it necessary to comment on something so seemingly trivial. You will get irritated, which is not helpful in the middle of a presentation, and you might not respond to that positively.
• You save face. It can be disconcerting and embarrassing to have someone in the audience draw attention to your mistake. This may affect you for the rest of the presentation.  You may also lose credibility.

Phrases to use when realizing presentation mistakes

• “Can anyone spot the mistake on this slide?”
• “I’ve just noticed a mistake on this slide. It should read sales rose by 2% not to 2%. Apologies for that.”

3 results of pointing out your own presentation mistakes

• You stay credible. Mistakes are OK if you own up to them. If someone else points them out then this is where you can begin to feel uncomfortable.
• You come across as human.   Your open, honest approach will impress. After all, who doesn’t make mistakes?
• You have the opportunity to include the audience. If you challenge them to find the mistake, they need to wake up and think.

Presentation mistakes aren’t generally a problem. It’s how they are handled that can be. Having a strategy ready for how to react if you notice a mistake in your own presentation, will prevent you from having to think on your feet. Let us know if you have any other phrase or ideas to add to this post. Want to know more how how to become a better presenter? Click here .

You might also like

Good tips, it’s important to admit when you’ve done something wrong. If you try to bluff your way through it, it only makes the audience more enthusiastic about pointing out your mistakes!

My top tips in this situation are:

1. Before you give your presentation, ask someone else to look at your slides – they will see a mistake more easily than you (as you’ve probably looked at it too many times!).

2. If they point out a mistake – thank them. As Kate says above, you are only human.

3. If it is a really important presentation, practice with someone first (husband, friend, partner, etc.). It is good to get tips before your presentation so you have time to change things if necessary.

4. Finally, have a sense of humour about it all – don’t get too embarrassed. I often say: “You win the prize for being the most attentive participant today! Well done!”

Comments are closed.

Our solutions.

• Virtual Delivery
• Blended Learning
• In-house Business English
• Case Studies

Target Training GmbH

• Kopernikusstrasse 13
• 63071 Offenbach am Main
• Tel: +49 69 8484 79 0

Privacy Policy

Mistakes Happen: How to Handle Slip-ups in Presentations

To err is human; everyone makes mistakes . But if you handle mistakes and slip-ups in presentations with confidence, your presentation will end smoothly and successfully.

Admitting that mistakes happen and have to be dealt with is the first step in creating a recovery plan. By practicing how to handle mishaps in advance, you’ll be well equipped to deal with an emergency.

Ask yourself what mistakes and slip-ups could occur and prepare yourself

Preparing for a presentation is not just about going through the slides and checking equipment. Considering any potential mistakes that could arise is key to delivering the best presentation possible . Ask yourself how you can proactively address your mistakes with a positive attitude and what mishaps might occur in presentations.

Go through the individual points of your presentation and think about how you can answer questions from your audience. Even elements that you may not consider very important can lead to problems and mishaps.

Consider the little things

Thinking beyond the presentation itself will help you avoid any unnecessary mistakes. Be on time. Being late is the first serious mistake you should avoid. First impressions are everything and being late to your own presentation will make you look unprofessional. Plan in advance how long it will take you to get to the venue and factor in other issues, such as whether there are enough parking spaces or if public transport is running on time that day.

Also, think back on any mishaps that may have happened to you in past presentations. As we all know, you learn from your mistakes – so use them to improve yourself!

You need to radiate confidence, particularly during presentations that are extremely important to you or your company . The right preparation will allow you to remain calm during your presentation and show your audience that you have everything under control – even if you slip up.

Avoid or solve technical errors

The days of straightforward presentations are over. Nowadays, virtually all presentations involve PowerPoint or other media which require the right equipment. This technology is one of the most frequent causes of mishaps (e.g., projector or microphone failure) in presentations. Presenters need to stay on top of it all to ensure a smooth presentation.

Take the time to check on-site equipment before you give your presentation. If, despite all your preparation, you run into technical problems and don’t know what to do, ask the audience if someone tech-savvy can help or if someone is familiar with the problem.

Sometimes, no matter what you do or who helps you out, the equipment just doesn’t want to cooperate. In that case, be prepared to deliver your presentation without PowerPoint so you can continue confidently.

Use back-ups

Back-ups can be lifesavers for presentations. It may be worth packing a second charger or even a second laptop. Having a paper version of your PowerPoint on hand is also a great idea.

When does it make sense to repair equipment?

If an important piece of equipment fails during your presentation, the first thought is often to fix it. If the issue is minor – think broken laser pointer – it makes more sense to just continue with the presentation.

If your tablet or laptop battery is dead, announce a short break and connect your device to the power supply.

For more complex technical problems, notify the building management or a technician.

The classic: How to handle a mental blackout with confidence

Although it happens to everyone, it can still be really embarrassing. Losing your train of thought in a presentation is something every dreads.

When it happens, it can often help to take a breath and pause before you continue. Smile openly at your audience; this will make you appear more confident. Even if this pause seems like an eternity, your audience won’t notice as much, and it will give you a moment to calm your nerves.

Summarizing what you’ve already shared with your audience can also help you recover from a mental blackout. This gives you the opportunity to remind your audience of the most important points and gives you the time you need to get back on track.

And if you still can’t remember where you left off, ask your audience for help. No one will hold it against you if you ask, “Where was I?”.

Disturbance from the audience

When thinking about possible mistakes that can occur during a presentation, many people only have the presenter in mind.  The audience, however, can be just as responsible for disturbances as the presenter. Interruptions coming from the audience may include ringing phones, people that arrive late or conversations that are being held during the talk. Sometimes, presenters may even have to face interruptions in form of the audience loudly commenting on the topic

In this paragraph, we’re going to explain how to handle such disturbances and how to potentially incorporate them into your presentation. Because even though interruptions might not always be helpful, they come with the chance to interact with your audience. 

If some members of the expected audience aren’t present at the time you set your talk to start, it might be worth thinking about delaying the start for 5-10 minutes. If you do decide to delay your presentation it is important to tell the audience that is present, as this gives them the opportunity to prepare for a later start. On top of that, it is advisable to kindly ask your audience to mute their phones as this will prevent disturbances caused by ringing or vibrating phones. But if interruptions occur, there are a few ways to handle them.

If there is a disturbance, the first thing to do is to ask yourself whether it’s just you that is distracted by it or if it distracts your whole audience. Based on this decision you can then react either passively or actively to the disruption.

Given you decide that you as the presenter are the only person affected by this, the best option is to simply ignore it and to proceed with your talk . Another option to passively react to a disruption is to tolerate it . An example for this would be a person that is late to your presentation. As this is an interruption that everyone in your audience might notice, it’s worth addressing it in a friendly way without seeming annoyed or rude.

Besides the listed ways of passively reacting to an interruption, there are also ways to actively address them. As disturbances, such as the audience saying something, often mean that your listeners are interested in what you’re saying, it’s a good idea to integrate their interruptions into your presentation .

If you are comfortable with alternating your presentation plan as you present, it’s worth answering any questions regarding the topic of your talk, there and then. Alternatively, you always have the option to do a Q&A at the end of your presentation.

In rare cases, you might face situations during a presentation, in which people shout things that aren’t constructive or relevant for your presentation. If those people refuse to be quiet after you have kindly asked them to, ask them to leave so your presentation won’t be disturbed further.

Use composure and humor to communicate strength and confidence

A mistake isn’t a problem until the presenter makes it one. For example, no matter how big the goof up, a smile always communicates a sense of composure and shows that you’re not so easily thrown off your game.

Although a mistake or technical snafu during your presentation may seem like the end of the world, handling it with humor will keep things light and upbeat. There’s not much you can do if the microphone breaks down or if it’s too loud outside the meeting room. Sure, it may disrupt your presentation but if you treat the situation with humor, you’ll diffuse any tension or discomfort you and your audience may be feeling.

Mistakes in presentations happen. Handle them with confidence and score points with your audience!

No matter how professional and experienced you are, mistakes and mishaps happen to everyone. Follow our tips and tricks and keep calm during your presentation. Your audience will keep following your presentation and focusing on your content, regardless of any mishaps.

Whatever may come, try to remember the following tips for mistakes in presentations: Don’t lose your sense of humor; it will always trumps irritation and impatience. So, even if something goes wrong, avoid harsh or snide remarks. Instead, stay friendly and positive. After all, every problem can be solved somehow!

If you have any questions about preparing a PowerPoint presentation, feel free to contact us at [email protected]

Share this post

• share  
• save  

Design Thinking: Problem Solving with a Difference

Why Corporate Mission Statements Are So Important

7 Tips & Learnings from the Apple Keynote

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Reading Lists
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

7 Tricky Work Situations, and How to Respond to Them

• Alicia Bassuk

From when someone takes credit for an idea to when you have to deliver bad news.

You know the moment: a mood-veering, thought-steering, pressure-packed interaction with a colleague, boss, or client when the right thing to say is stuck in a verbal traffic jam between your brain and your mouth. This analysis paralysis occurs when your brain suddenly becomes overtaxed by worry or pressure. Consequently, you find yourself unable to respond to a mental, psychological, or emotional challenge, and you fail to execute in the critical moment. Many people experience this at work. But there are seven key phrases you can use, tailored to specific situations. You can keep them in your back pocket for when these kinds of moments happen, route your response with them, and redirect the situation to regain control.

You know the moment: a mood-veering, thought-steering, pressure-packed interaction with a colleague, boss, or client where the right thing to say is stuck in a verbal traffic jam between your brain and your mouth.

• AB Alicia Bassuk is a leadership designer and coach, speaker, author, and founder of leadership development firm Ubica . Clients include professional athletes, C-level executives, presidential appointees, entrepreneurs, and other leaders internationally. She is currently writing a leadership book for McGraw-Hill (2019), When No One is Looking Take the Lead: 16 Weeks to Perpetual Progress . Follow her on Twitter at @aliciabassuk .

Partner Center

• Lifestyle & Personal Growth

30 Common Presentation Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

by Giovanni O.C Olakunori · Published August 27, 2014 · Updated September 2, 2018

Giving a PowerPoint presentation in front of your professor, colleagues, employees, employer, or potential clients can be a great source of anxiety. If not done well, your audience may have a low response rate, and we all know this usually doesn’t translate to anything positive.

I’d share with you 30 common presentation mistakes most students or professionals make. These mistakes can cost you a lot, so it’s important you do your best to avoid them.

1). Writing ”Presentation” on slide one

I know, not everyone knows you are giving a presentation, so you don’t need to add that to slide one. Simply name your presentation on the first slide in a few words as possible, and list your name, title and contact information.

2). Mentioning ”PowerPoint presentation”

You don’t say things like oh: here I am with a PowerPoint presentation. Surely, your audience should know that you are giving a PowerPoint presentation, mentioning that is unnecessary.

3). Not considering your audience needs and how much time they have to devote to you

It is necessary that you know your audience needs and how much time they have to devote to listen to your presentation. This would enable you to use the right phrase or metaphor that would leave them in awe, and warrant their attention. It’ll also enable you to maximise your time.

4). Being arrogant

Be humble, take other people’s opinion and questions into consideration. Being an arrogant presenter could make your audience uncomfortable. Don’t be an asshole!

5). Saying:

You know your audience would rather not be there….

”I know some of you would prefer to be at the AMA awards ceremony, but since we are here….’ ‘Never start with lines like this-they make your presentation appear boring to the audience. Believe in the value of your presentation, believe in yourself. Make your presentation sound interesting; tell stories, crack jokes, make good connections.

“I’m sorry”…

“For example, an audience member requests, ‘Could you please go back to the previous slide,’ or, ‘Could you please speak louder,’ and the presenter replies, ‘Oh, I’m sorry. Don’t apologize; instead, give a positive proactive reply, such as, ‘Of course, I’d be happy to.'”

Presenters also tend to apologize when they think they’ve made an error, which the audience most likely did not notice: ”I’m sorry – earlier I forgot to say…”

Don’t call attention to a mishap, because it undermines your authority and expertise. Just make the point. Reserve an apology for a real failure or injury that has caused someone harm.

“I’m tired” 

Regardless of why you’re bushed, don’t broadcast it, Says Darlene Price, president of Well Said, Inc . “You’re the star, and the show must go on.” Your audience want and expect value. Don’t disappoint them by announcing they’re not getting your best.

As a speaker, of course you know your primary responsibility is to prepare and rehearse enough to deliver an outstanding presentation – one that delivers value for the audience and reflects positively on you,” Price says. When that’s not possible, don’t announce it. Do the best you can and step up the prep next time.

“I already covered that. Weren’t you listening?” 

When an audience member asks a question about a point that you’ve already covered, answer it politely, even if that person wasn’t paying attention. Give the person the benefit of the doubt. Don’t scold, shame, blame, or embarrass an audience member.

“I’m nervous”

According to Darlene Price , you should not confess your anxiety as a negative, but rather as a positive.

“Every good presenter gets a bout of butterflies before speaking. It’s a sure sign you care – that something important is at stake. Plus, adrenalin is that magic energy that fuels your body for a great performance. Therefore, the goal is to manage the nervousness, not eliminate it.”

6). Delivering a one-slide presentation

Most presenters usually dwell on the first slide until they run out of time. Sometimes they forget that they have more than one slide. Be sure to study your slide content properly.

7). Adding Extraneous Information

For example: if your presentation is not intended to train new employees, then there is no need to write ”mission statement, ”vision ” and ”values”. You should rather give your audience the grace to make a conclusion about what your company stands for.

8). Too much text or information on a slide

The attention of the audience gets divided between the slide and the presenter if there are too much text on the slide. Put only key words on your slides. Keywords can help you remember the flow of your topic.

9). Reading slides

This is plain wrong and boring. All you need is just to conduct the slideshow and do the talking.

10). Overloading your slide with animations

Plain simple: doing so can make the audience perceive you as someone who is tacky. Use animations that are consistent with your speech.

11). Adding too much information on graphs

Graphs with too much data are usually not fully analyzed by the audience (due to time, etc.). Check the objective of your graph and decrease the amount of numbers, etc. Keep it simple.

12). Using poorly chosen design template or design theme

Blue is considered by many to be a good color for a design template or design theme, due to the fact that it is one of the most lovable colors. It’d be nice to use a blue template/theme when making a business presentation, even though you may dislike color blue. If you are making a presentation about cars, you shouldn’t use a design template with aeroplanes. Tip: straightforward layout is best for business presentation. Young children respond positively to presentations that are full of color and contain a variety of shapes. You should put that into consideration when searching for a template/theme when making a presentation to a bunch of kids.

13). Not maintaining a standard design across the slide

Using similar fonts, colors, etc. across your slide makes it more appealing to the audience. You should read about color psychology to know which kind of color to use across your slides. Audiences don’t like unusual color combination. Those with color blindness can’t differentiate between red and green. Good contrast with the background is essential to make your text easy to read. Dark text on a light background is best.

14). Using poor font choices

Small fonts might look great when you are sitting 10-15 inches away from your monitor, but it may not look so when viewed 100-200 feet away by your audience. Stick to easy to read fonts such as Arial or Times New Roman.

15). Adding sounds to your animation

Clipping sounds, clicking sounds, etc. These things could distract the audience from you. Sounds should only be allowed when you want to show them a short clip.

16). Too many slides

Keep your presentation intriguing, short and simple. It’s as easy as that.

17). Too many pictures or graphs

You should use photos, charts and diagrams only to emphasize key points of your presentation. Illustrate rather than decorate.

18). Summarizing the presentation at the end

This could be really annoying to your audience. Why sum up everything in only 15 minutes when you spent the last one hour giving your presentation. Don’t summarize, rather reinforce your main topic(s) and message(s).

19). “Outsourcing” the task of advancing the slides

You should get used to advancing your slides as a presenter. This would prevent you from shouting ”next!” ”skip!” and the like. Or you talk to the person who would advance your slides on basis of discreet physical cues.

20). Hardware Malfunction

This is one of the worst things that could happen to any presenter. Endeavor to check all the equipments, and rehearse your presentation with the equipment’s long before your time to present. Carry extra equipment’s if possible. Check the lightning of the room you’d be giving your presentation. Make sure you know how to control the intensity of the light in the room if the room gets too bright.

21). Wearing the wrong clothing

Your clothes communicate identity, personality, and image to the audience. It is the first thing your audience will see during your presentation. They will be more open to your message if you carry yourself with confidence. You’ll feel more certain of yourself if you’re dressed in appropriate and comfortable clothing. The most important principle is to match your appearance to the occasion and the audience.

22). Lacking confidence

You are talking to humans like you, who could even be in the same position as you if they were to make a presentation, so why feel tense? Without confidence you wouldn’t communicate with the right tone or body language to the audience. This could greatly impact how open the audience is to your presentation. You can read the articles I presented below for more information.

23). Not being able to answer questions concisely

Keep your answers short and simple. If you can’t provide a right answer-say it, but reassure the person you’d get in touch with them with the answer.

24). Not being prepared for the presentation

This could lead to pure disaster. After all ”an unfinished business is no business”. You need time to gather the facts, and get your materials ready, including yourself ready. It’s better you give zero presentation, than go for your presentation unprepared. Whether your presentation lasts for five minutes, fifty minutes, five hours, or five days, you owe it to yourself and your audience to prepare thoroughly. Eat the right meal before your presentation, take a bottle of water and keep it within arm’s reach during your speech.

25). Presenting a false information

Presenting false information during your presentation could really add a stain to your credibility if you get caught. This is why you need to do an extensive research prior to your presentation. Quote your sources when you are not sure of the information.

26). Not being able to understand your audience

You need to understand your audience in order to best appeal to their emotions. To be able to understand your audience effectively, you need to answer these questions:

How much knowledge do they have of the subject I’ll be presenting?

What are the ranks and positions of the people who will be attending, what does the audience want to achieve, how can i honor my audience’s needs and perspectives, what is the age group, why do i have to do this presentation.

Give them something they haven’t heard before. Tell a captivating story. Ask a rhetorical thought provoking question. Play a short video. Give them something they know isn’t just available anywhere…Something to keep them active and wanting more.

27). Inappropriate Humor

Humor is culture-sensitive. A joke in one part of the world may be considered a taboo in another. Although cracking a joke during your presentation can be uplifting, it’s best to crack jokes that wouldn’t cause controversy. You don’t necessarily need to crack jokes when doing professional presentations. Or, you can look for other ways to build rapport with the audience.

28). Employing negative body language

Maintaining eye contact is essential during your presentation. You shouldn’t spend your time looking at your notes, the screen or the ceiling- these and more are negative body language . Employing them during your presentation can cause more harm than good to your presentation. Employing large gestures, smiling appropriately, high energy speeches are some few positive body languages to employ.

29). Arriving late for presentation

You should arrive at your presentation center at least one-hour before your presentation starts. Shake hands and talk with as many people as possible ahead of time. Go through your presentation. Practice the first minute in your mind. Focus on positive thoughts and images. It’s not strange to feel nervous before a presentation, but arriving late makes everything worst.

30). Having a “Thank you slide”

Say ”thank you” in person.

I’d recommend you read the following articles below:

• 3 Public Speaking Tips From The Most Popular TED Talk Ever
• 7 Excellent Ways To Start A Presentation
• 10 Things You Should Do In The 15 Minutes Before A Big Presentation

Subscribe now to get summarised alerts of new posts by email.

Tags: common presentation mistakes presentation tips

Giovanni O.C Olakunori

Giovanni Chinecherem Olakunle Olakunori(commonly known as Giovanni Olakunori) is an aspiring data scientist at heart, business developer and educator with a deep interest in ancient philosophy, healthy living, and developing economies. He’s the founder of LarnEdu, a community that inspires and supports lifelong learning especially in underdeveloped nations. He currently lives in the UK after living in 4 other countries across Europe and Africa. You can read more about him or follow him on Facebook , Instagram or Twitter to see his public posts about how much he loves hot Kenkey and Jolof rice.

3 Responses

• Pingbacks 0

Well, I would not say I have not learnt something from these presentation tips…

Really – This is one of the best presentation tips I’ve seen… Great piece Giovani! 🙂

Great piece!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Next story Steps to Take if You Have A Poor WASSCE / WAEC Result
• Previous story 6 Steps To Break Into A Career In Human Resource

Subscribe to new posts by email:

Recent posts.

• The 2020 US Election Uncertainty Cure For Investors November 2, 2020
• The COVID-19 ‘Coronomic’ Impact: Short-and Long-Term Risks March 15, 2020
• Happy New Year! January 1, 2020
• List of Universities or Colleges in UK That Accept WASSCE (WAEC) Results November 13, 2019
• List of Universities or Colleges in Canada That Accept WASSCE (WAEC) Results November 13, 2019
• List of Universities or Colleges in Us That Accept WASSCE (WAEC) Results November 13, 2019
• Capitalism Without Capital (2018) Book Summary and Insights November 12, 2019
• AI Superpowers (2018) Book Summary and Insights November 12, 2019
• The Curse of Bigness (2018) Book Summary and Insights November 12, 2019
• The Road to Character (2015) Book Summary and Insights November 12, 2019

WASSCE(WAEC)

Steps to Take if You Have A Poor WASSCE / WAEC Result

16 Sep, 2014

6 Ways: How to Upgrade Your WASSCE / WAEC Result

13 Aug, 2015

List of Universities or Colleges in Canada That Accept WASSCE (WAEC) Results

13 Nov, 2019

Interviews & Memoir

Interview: Shree Bose–Google Science Fair Winner And More

30 Mar, 2015

Online Education/Distance Learning

How to Get Free Certificates on Coursera (Financial Aid)

8 Sep, 2015

QNA: How to Check Your WAEC Result Without Scratch Card

5 Nov, 2015

REVEALED: How to Check WASSCE / WAEC Results Online For Free

50+ Tips: How to Pass the WASSCE / WAEC Examination

1 Sep, 2015

Study Abroad & International Students Experience

16 Best Reasons To Study In Finland

4 Apr, 2015

International Students Guide: How To Study In Finland For Free

8 Apr, 2015

10 Steps: How to Check Your WASSCE / WAEC Result Online

11 Aug, 2015

Studying Abroad In Qatar: What Will Your Experience Entail?

15 Jul, 2015

Scholarships, Grants & Awards

Top 2017 Scholarship Opportunities For International Students

15 Feb, 2017

Uncategorised

Can Your Idea Change The World? Google Will “Pay” You

25 Feb, 2015

Why Facebook Should Implement MOOCs To Internet.org

23 Feb, 2015

Tips for creating the best presentation

Tips Trick and Technique for creating and delivering Powerpoint and Keynote Presentation

Why Smiling is Good for You When Giving Presentation?

November 13, 2019 by Muhammad Noer

Some of you might say, “Standing in front of audience without getting cold feet sometimes is already hard, let alone smiling.”

Well, the truth is smiling can help you reduce stress and shake off all your fears while talking in front of people, such as in a presentation.

A smile has its own strength. To your audience, a smile expresses warmth. For yourself, it gives a strong impression on how you see the world.

When you smile, you change the effect of the reaction on your body. The body releases dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, the hormones that responsible for calmness and pleasure. Aren’t these conditions you really need to overcome your fears and stage fright?

When giving a presentation, your smile is an important part of the instruments that exist in your body. Smiles can modulate your voice, thus enabling you to get more engaged to your audience.

Our body is a tool, just like a musical instrument. The design is important. Our mouth is the bell of the instrument, while smile determines its shape. When you change the shape of the bell, it also changes your voice.

When you smile, you can feel it changes the atmosphere, from your stage to the entire room.

There are so many reasons why you better smile when giving presentation. The release of the happy hormones was just one of the them.

It makes you look cool and credible

People say, the less emotion you how, the more you look cool and credible. Apparently, not really. The Journal of Consumer Research in 2018 reveals the opposite. Looking serious or credible has nothing to do with smiling.

Researchers found that public speakers who smile look cooler than less expressive ones. In addition, unable to smile risks the absence of connection with the audience. And we all know that connectedness is needed in effective communication.

It helps you to build connection with audience

This point is related to the previous reason. Giving a presentation is a form of communication that based on relationships. Presenters need to smile to help them develop connections with the audience.

People tend to mimic face expression their interlocutors. The mimicry often occur unconsciously. Basically, by mimicking, we want to express warmth and build connection.

So, when you stand in front audience and smile at them, there’s a big chance they will smile back at you unconsciously. This is the beginning of the formation of connections in the subconscious.

It helps your mind stay calm and makes your body relax

When you see the audience smile back at you, you can also feel the effect. You will be calmer, more relaxed, and more confident. It is triggered by the release of the hormones, like serotonin and dopamine in the brain.

Dopamine increases feelings of happiness, while serotonin tries to reduce stress. When you smile, your brain produces chemicals that tell you if you enjoy this activity (presentation, public speaking). It is telling you, “You are fine.”

These hormones relax your body. Smiling reduces the body’s response to stressful changes.

Research that has been done involves the act of biting chopsticks in the mouth, which gives a similar shape to a smile, giving the effect to heart rate. The beating is lower, so less stress occurs.

These findings suggest that smiling during brief stress can help reduce the body’s stress response.

It helps you to have longer life span

Well, this might be the long-term reason, but if you think your life is stressful since you have to give presentation a little bit too often, and stress leads to shorten age, therefore you better start to practice this smile.

In conclusion, smiling is a simple way to make giving presentation or public speaking less stressful, while helping you connect with your audience.

One thing that also important to keep in mind is public speaking is an industry of service. As speakers, we must find ways to form ourselves to become instruments of presentation, that will get the strongest response from our audience. Who would have think that the strongest instrument was a smile? (*)

Download Inspiring Presentation

Simply complete the form below and click download. We will send you two Inspiring Slides. FREE!

About Muhammad Noer

Muhammad Noer is a Human Resources Professional who has passion in sharing how to create and deliver a great presentation.

Best Presentation is aiming to give you practical tips on how to create a great presentation. We believe everyone can learn how to create a better presentation, deliver a great speech and show amazing visual slides.

We created wide-ranging presentations template products from Inspiring Slides to Powerful Business Presentation. Click below for the products:

• WOW Presentation
• Inspiring Slides

Email: [email protected]

Address: Level 38, Tower A, Kota Kasablanka Jl. Casablanca Raya Kav 88 Jakarta – INDONESIA

Home Top – Download

Recent Post

• How to Reduce PowerPoint File Size: 3 Quick Tips To Help You Out
• Want Your Audience Keep Listening to You? Check This Out!
• Start Your Presentation with Villain
• How to Use Storytelling in Presentations
• 5 Things to Remember Before Doing Online Presentation

Describe A Time When You Faced An Ethical Dilemma? (With 10 Sample Interview Answers)

There are always a few crazy situations in our life when we are stuck in the midst of a dilemma. A dilemma refers to a circumstance in which we have to decide between two equally likely options, using our power of wit and knowledge. Though this might seem less daunting and intimidating on the face of it, however, when any such real event occurs it indeed requires a lot of thinking and comprehension. That is why, this is one of the favorite interview questions of an interviewer using which they want to evaluate and examine your critical thinking and innovative abilities, using which you can choose out a single option.

Every question of an interview session is highly thoughtful and created with a broader prospect in mind with a sole objective to evaluate the personality as well as the mindset of a candidate. Hence, this question too, like every other, requires serious preparation and sincere effort. This article promises to complete your preparation and presents you with some really effective tips and ten unique sample answers to consider.

Six Best Tips To Effectively Answer This Interview Question

1) understand the question completely.

At a workplace, an employee might face a variety of dilemmas and situations, which might be strictly professional and some might be ethical issues. This question requires you to focus only on the ethical conundrums which you might have faced in your own professional career. Hence, stick to the real expectations and demands of the question instead of wandering and delivering an irrelevant answer.

2) Narrate A Real Story

The best way to respond to this question is by narrating a real story that you might have faced in your real professional life. When you are working, you are bound to enter into social as well as ethical dilemmas. Hence, just lay some stress on your mind and try to remember about such situations. Narrating an imperfect or a cock and bull story might affect your chances of selection considerably as any such answer can be easily caught by a veteran interviewer.

3) Do Not Answer In Negative

You face any tricky answer, just respond negatively. This might seem to be the best way to avoid an uncomfortable situation. Unfortunately, this is not. The best way is to accept the challenge and face it with all your vigor and energy. You are strictly advised by Prepmycareer, not to answer this question in a negative manner as that would simply mean that you are underprepared or not interested in the position advertised.

4) Display The Dilemma Clearly

Whatever story you are narrating, just make sure that your interviewer is able to understand and get hold of the two situations completely. If you cannot establish a relationship between the two equally likely options, the whole purpose of this question goes for a toss and an interviewer would simply mark the reply as vague or ambiguous. Such an act would hurt your chances of selection.

5) Share A Single Event

There might be more than one such event that you have faced in your professional career. However, as an ideal reply to this question you are expected to share any single event. This is primarily because of the limited amount of time available with an interviewer and also because stories are really long and time-consuming to narrate.

6) Fair or Not, Justify Your Stand

Ethical dilemmas are against the humanity, environment, or any other social cause that might adversely affect the masses at large. Being an employee of the organization you are trusted and confided in to execute all the tasks, unethical or not. An interviewer totally understands it, and in case you executed an unethical task just for the sake of getting your salary, explain it to the interviewer with logical rationales.

Ten Best Sample Answers To Consider and Study

Sample answer one.

Sir, it is absolutely common for professionals to enter into tricky situations at the workplace with some of the worst situations occurring when an employee faces an ethical dilemma. I remember one event during my previous tenure when I was leading a construction project. We were supposed to create 500 villas on a particular landscape which consisted of more than 1500 trees and a variety of unique shrubs and herbs. Despite, having environmental clearance, it was pretty tough for me to just order the clearing of such a beautiful natural habitat.

The project was really profitable for the organization to execute and at the same time, it could have enhanced the environmental issues to their zenith. Hence, I preferred to use my wit and before giving a sanction to clear the forest, I made a written representation to the senior management, to re-think and re-consider the project and if there are chances to shift the project to any new location. I believe, I made the right choice of sending a written representation, but unfortunately, my proposal got refused.

Sample Answer Two

Sir, in my ten years of professional career, I have faced such dilemmas a number of times. However, I would like to show you the one which really attached me to it. 5 years back, I was working as a manager with a pharmaceutical company. The company was highly profit-oriented and just wanted to earn substantial profits in a very short period of time. This led to aggressive selling of its products and even bribing the doctors. I faced an ethical dilemma when I was forced to give a bribe to a doctor and persuade him to start recommending organizations’ produce of lower quality which might also affect human health. I refused to do so, which is why I am here, sitting for an interview.

Sample Answer Three

During my previous tenure, I was a factory supervisor of a reputed manufacturing organization. The organization was in a habit of making substantial pay cuts to illiterate labor. When one fine day, I remember I was asked to pay depleted wages to the workers of the factory. This was an ethical as well as an emotional dilemma, as I knew the organization was making unjust pay cuts from the wages of the poor and illiterate workers of the factory. I was really tensed for a few moments, and then I decided to become a whistleblower and made a written complaint to the concerned labor officer.

Sample Answer Four

There have been several such instances throughout my professional career. I remember, when I was working as a counselor at a reputed counseling and overseas education organization, to guide a young child in the wrong direction just because the organization was getting handsome commission out of that deal. I was supposed to send the candidature of a child to an inferior foreign university, even though he secured some really good scores.

This was an ethical dilemma for me, as on one side there was a lucrative commission and on the other side, there was a career at stake. I chose the opposite and sent the candidature to the university which the kid actually deserved. As a side effect, I was ousted from my position and thus, I am here in front of you.

Sample Answer Five

I believe, in a quest to earn higher profits, organizations commit and enter into a few unethical business practices that lead to the creation of an ethical dilemma for their employees and workers. I remember, when I was working for ABC Trading Corporation, how the organization was swallowing small traders and manufacturers and tossing the rules and guidelines of the competition law and ministry into the trash.

I was a project manager there and was supposed to offer a minimal amount for purchasing the entire business of its smaller competitors. In case they resisted, they were in to experience some force. This led to the creation of an ethical dilemma, I was simply swallowing up the livelihood means of these smaller corporations. As a result, I simply resigned.

Sample Answer Six

My previous employer was a garment manufacturing company who used to forward job contracts to several smaller manufacturing organizations. I was the inspection officer who used to visit the factory premises of these smaller manufacturing organizations so as to finalize their contracts after making an inspection. There was a really attractive and affordable supplier of ours, who quoted the lowest for the job work. When, I personally went for the inspection purposes, I found that the organization was using unethical manufacturing practices, and the entire factory waste was simply allowed to flow in the fresh river water, which was responsible to serve the water needs of an entire village.

This was really a tough ethical dilemma that I faced, as on one side the livelihood of millions of people was at stake and on the other side there was an entire bucket load of organizational profit that was at stake. But, being a person from a humble financial background, I caved in front of my employer’s demand only for the sake of securing my job and handed over the job contract to that manufacturer.

Sample Answer Seven

I was working as a manufacturing head of a reputed business organization in my previous employment. Our organization had the habit of packaging its goods and heavy products into paper and jute packaging, as a measure to prevent the environment and follow the environmental guidelines. However, there was a period of time, when the company’s profits really dwindled downwards, and it started using plastic for its primary packaging purposes.

I was totally against it as plastic causes greater harm to our environment and was thus stuck in an ethical dilemma. Our company could simply not afford the expensive paper and jute packaging, and being a committed and loyal employee of the organization, I stood by the plastic packaging.

Sample Answer Eight

I faced an ethical dilemma when once upon a time, I encountered some unethical business practices of my previous employer. I was given a task to execute the supervision of a production process for a food company on a job contract basis. It was pretty clear from our client, not to use a particular chemical in our manufacturing processes. However, that element was a catalyst, and used to speed up the production process considerably, but was unhealthy for human consumption.

This pushed me into an ethical dilemma, as our organization was adamant about using this chemical so as to earn a higher amount of profit. However, I never supported the organization in such an ethical practice. I resigned, and even complained to the concerned official

Sample Answer Nine

I remember a similar instance from my previous employment when I was working as the factory manager for a reputed business organization. The working conditions of the factory were strictly in contravention of the applicable factory law and were really unsafe as well as unsanitized. Once I was supposed to hire more laborers for the booming factory production by luring them about high payouts and perfect working conditions. This was a real ethical dilemma, as I knew that is untrue. But, since I was jobless before for a fairly long period of time, I did everything at the instructions of the organization, unethical or not.

Sample Answer Ten

It is common for employees of an organization to get stuck into ethical dilemmas more than not. I remember, how I got stuck into a similar messy situation when I was supposed to give manufacturing contracts to an organization, which used unethical environmental practices while undertaking its manufacturing process. However, being an employee who is loyal and committed, I stood by the organization and supported it even though I never wanted to.

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0012369209604116
• https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1473325010370189

I’ve put so much effort writing this blog post to provide value to you. It’ll be very helpful for me, if you consider sharing it on social media or with your friends/family. SHARING IS ♥️

Sandeep Bhandari is the founder of PrepMyCareer.com website.

I am a full-time professional blogger, a digital marketer, and a trainer. I love anything related to the Web, and I try to learn new technologies every day.

All the team management, content creation, and monetization tasks are handled by me. Together with the team at PrepMyCareer, the aim is to provide useful and engaging content to our readers.

Readers who read this also read:

• Top 21 Manufacturing Engineer Interview Questions In 2024 [With Answers]
• Top 21 Real Estate Agent Interview Questions In 2024 [With Answers]
• Top 21 Administrative Assistant Interview Questions In 2024 [With Answers]
• Top 21 Graphic Design Interview Questions In 2024 [With Answers]
• Top 21 Genpact Interview Questions In 2024 [With Answers]

• Presentation Hacks

Lying in Presentations: How to Respond When the Audience Calls You Out

• By: Gabrielle Reed

During his short time in office, President Trump and his administration have been known to bend the truth or utilize hyperbole to the point of lying. From exaggerating the attendance numbers of his inauguration to tweeting his belief that Barack Obama obtained information from him through wiretapping, Trump is well on his way to establishing himself as dishonest and disingenuous. Presenters and public speakers of all shapes and sizes will find themselves in situations like Trump’s at some point in their careers. We all spread misinformation in one form or the other, but the trust test of an individual’s credibility is how they respond when they are caught. Try these alternate responses if you ever find yourself in a sticky situation with your audience:

1. Blame Only Yourself

Trump tends to place most of the weight of his dishonesty on the media or other entities. This strategy may not work well for presenters – especially if you are presenting on behalf of your company or organization. Earn the trust of your audience back by blaming yourself and shedding any light you can on the purpose or intent of the lie.

2. Avoid the Denial Spiral

You may have made it this far with the charade, but that doesn’t mean you should par for the course. If an audience member calls you out on meddling with the facts, please do not deny it. According to Lifehacker’s Kristin Wong, the denial spiral occurs when an individual falls victim to the sunk-cost fallacy . After a presenter has expended a sizable amount of effort finessing the lie, he or she won’t easily set it in the trash and accept their mistake. But, if you do, your audience will likely applaud you for taking the high road.

3. Have a Conversation

After your audience has discovered your lie, do not immediately go on the defensive. Attendees will continue to respect you as a public speaker if you can take the reveal of the lie and transform it into a constructive conversation. No one pours gasoline on a fire after it has started. They throw buckets of water on it to temper the flames. Use your lie as an opportunity to break down those intangible barriers between you and your audience by igniting a discussion.

4. Say You’re Sorry

This seems to be the step many presenters and people forget. You can only fully recover from presentation lying if you’ve apologized for telling the lie – no matter how small or how large. A sincere apology separates you from achieving presentation success in the aftermath of lying entrapment.

Finally, try to learn some lessons from the experience. For example, thoroughly research every section of your presentation message. Present to friends and family. The more audiences you speak to, the more tests your run your presentation through before its big day. Maybe even ask a mock audience member to accuse you of lying and force yourself to role-play that type of scenario.

Related Posts:

Presentation Training Tips for the 7 Types of Learners

How the Badge Assessment Made Me a Better Presenter

Fact Checking Your Own Presentation

Gabrielle Reed

Join our newsletter today.

© 2006-2024 Ethos3 – An Award Winning Presentation Design and Training Company ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Diversity and Inclusion