why good personal presentation is important for museum staff

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Personal presentation is how you portray and present yourself to other people. It includes how you look, what you say, and what you do, and is all about marketing YOU, the brand that is you.

What others see and hear from you will influence their opinion of you. Good personal presentation is therefore about always showing yourself in the best possible light.

We all know that you only get one chance to make a first impression. Most of us are probably also aware that it takes quite a long time to undo that first impression—and that if it is negative, we may never get the chance to do so. This page explains some of the skills involved in making a good first impression—and then continuing to impress over time.

Understanding Personal Presentation

Personal presentation is about you and how you present yourself to others.

This includes both in everyday situations and when under pressure, for example, at job interviews. It is best thought of as a form of communication , because it always involves at least two people—the person presenting themselves (you) and the person seeing and hearing you.

Personal presentation covers what other people both see and hear. It includes how you look, what you say, and what you do. It therefore requires a wide range of skills, from improving your personal appearance to your communication skills.

However, all these aspects start from one place: you.

To present yourself well and confidently, you need to believe in yourself—or at least, be able to act as if you do.

Perception is Truth

People who present themselves as confident will be perceived as such by others.

There is also plenty of evidence that once we start acting as if we are confident, we generally feel more confident too.

Confidence—but not arrogance—is a very attractive trait. Having a justified belief in yourself and your abilities helps other people to be confident in you too.

Good personal presentation therefore requires good self-esteem and self-confidence. It means that you have to learn about yourself, and understand and accept who you are, both your positives and your negatives, and be comfortable with yourself. This does not, however, mean that you believe that there is nothing that you can improve—but that you are confident in your ability to achieve, and know how to overcome your flaws.

Paradoxically, therefore, personal presentation is actually not about being self-conscious or overly concerned with what others think about you. People who present themselves well generally do so because they believe in themselves, rather than because they are worried about what other people think. These concepts are closely related to Personal Empowerment .

A complete picture—and a cycle

Personal presentation is about conveying appropriate signals for the situation and for the other individuals involved.

People who lack self-esteem and confidence may fail to convey their message effectively or fully utilise their skills and abilities because of the way they present themselves. However, by improving your communication skills and reducing barriers to understanding, you may also improve your self-esteem and confidence.

Our pages: Communication Skills , Barriers to Communication and Improving Self-Esteem provide more information.

Areas of Personal Presentation

Improving personal presentation therefore requires a look at several different areas.

These include:

Self-esteem and self-confidence – how you feel about yourself and your abilities

Personal appearance – how you look, and how other people see you

Non-verbal communication – your body language, voice and facial expressions

Verbal communication – how you speak and use your words to make an impression

Behaviour – how you behave more generally, including politeness.

Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

Self-esteem and self-confidence are closely related, but not quite the same thing.

Self-esteem is how you see and value yourself .

Self-confidence is believing in or having faith in your ability , rather than yourself as a person.

Neither self-esteem nor self-confidence are static. They vary as a result of numerous factors, including different situations and the presence of different people, personal stress levels and the level of change. Low levels of self-esteem are often associated with low levels of confidence, but those with good self-esteem can also suffer from low confidence.

To improve your self-esteem and self-confidence, spend time thinking about how you value yourself. Remind yourself of what is good about you, and learn to manage the highs and lows of self-esteem. In particular, try to avoid being affected too much by others’ opinions about you.

It is also worth practising coming across as confident even when you are not, because those who appear confident are not only perceived as confident, but often actually become more confident.

See our pages on Improving Self-Esteem and Building Confidence for more discussion, tips and advice on this area.

Personal Appearance and Non-Verbal Communication

Personal appearance is the way that you dress and take care of your general appearance.

Much as we may hate the idea that appearances matter, this is an important factor in personal presentation. Whether you like it or not, others will make judgements about you based on how you look, which includes how you dress and your accessories. It is therefore worth taking time to think about what messages you are sending to others in the way that you dress.

Case study: The ‘gravitas bag’

Louise was a young graduate, working in a government department. She had been working there about two years, and had just started working for a new boss, a woman just a few years older than her.

One day, on the way to an important meeting, Louise’s carrier bag, in which she was carrying her notebook and pens, broke on the bus. Her boss laughed, but said to her, carefully,

“ You know, you ought to think a bit about how what you wear and carry affects what people think about you. I’m not sure it gives quite the right impression to wander into a meeting with pens and books spilling out of a split carrier bag—that’s why I keep a briefcase in my cupboard for the days when I’ve worn a backpack into work. This may sound stupid, but I always feel that people may be judging me because I’m both female and quite young. I don’t want to give them any reason to doubt my professionalism. ”

Neither did Louise. The next weekend, she went shopping. On the Monday, she proudly showed her boss a new handbag and matching briefcase—her ‘gravitas bag’, as she described it.

Your personal appearance is closely related to the body language, gestures and other non-verbal messages that you use.

Many people are unaware of how they are affected by body language, and also how they are affecting others. By being aware of positive and negative non-verbal signals, you can improve your image and the way people perceive you.

There is more about these ideas in our pages on Personal Appearance and Non-Verbal Communication , including specific pages on Body Language and Face and Voice .

Verbal Communication and Effective Speaking

What you say and how you say it are both important aspects of how you are perceived by others.

Verbal communication is all about the words that you choose. Those who are good at verbal communication understand the impact of their particular choice of words and choose the right words for the situation and the audience. They are skilled at getting their message across to others and ensuring that it has been received.

See our pages on Verbal Communication for more.

Good communicators also use their voices effectively to convey their feelings, and to influence their audience. Your voice says a lot about you and learning how to use it more effectively has many benefits. There are a number of aspects to your voice, including accent, tone, pitch and volume. Some of these are easier to change than others, but it is worth thinking about how each of these affects your audience, so that you can learn to use your voice more effectively. 

See our pages Effective Speaking and Non-Verbal Communication: Face and Voice to learn more.

How you behave, and not just how you speak, will leave a strong impression on others.

For example, if you are habitually late, you may give other people the impression that you do not value their time. Good time management skills can therefore be helpful in giving the right impression—as well as enabling you to work more efficiently.

See our pages Time Management and Avoiding Distractions for some ideas of to improve your time management skills.

More crucially, your general politeness—to everyone, and not just people who ‘matter’—will create an important impression about how you value others.  This is an essential element of personal presentation. It pays to consider your manners.

See our page How to be Polite for more.

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Our Communication Skills eBooks

Learn more about the key communication skills you need to be a more effective communicator.

Our eBooks are ideal for anyone who wants to learn about or develop their interpersonal skills and are full of easy-to-follow, practical information.

And finally…

It is almost certainly impossible to overestimate the importance of personal presentation, especially in creating a good first impression, but also in giving a longer-term view of yourself.

Improving some fairly basic communication skills and increasing your self-awareness will improve your ability to present yourself well. Knowing that you are more likely to say and do the right things, and look the part, will help to increase your confidence. All these will, in turn, help to ensure that you give the right impression.

This is especially true in more formal situations, culminating in improved communication and therefore better understanding.

Continue to: Personal Appearance Self-Presentation in Presentations

See also: Effective Ways to Present Yourself Well Building a Personal Brand That Will Boost Your Career 8 Ways to Effectively Market Yourself as a Professional

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Behind The Exhibit: What It Takes To Succeed As A Museum Curator

Joanna Tresa

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In the enigmatic world of museums, where history and art converge in a captivating dance, there exists a gatekeeper of knowledge and curator of wonders—the illustrious museum curator. Behind the scenes, these masterminds weave together the threads of the past, present, and future, crafting exhibits that leave visitors spellbound and hungry for more. But what does it take to ascend to this throne of curatorial greatness? Prepare to embark on a quest for answers as we unveil the qualifications essential for a triumphant career as a museum curator. From a thirst for knowledge that rivals the most ardent scholars to a creative flair that rivals the great artists themselves, the journey to curatorial success is as awe-inspiring as the masterpieces they protect.

Understanding The Role Of A Museum Curator

Museum curators are the masterminds behind the magic of museums. They are responsible for selecting, acquiring, preserving, and interpreting artefacts and artworks for public display. A curator’s keen eye, research skills, and creativity breathe life into exhibits, engaging visitors and fostering a deeper appreciation for history and art. A successful career as a museum curator requires a blend of academic qualifications, practical experience, and a passion for storytelling. In fact, overall employment of archivists, curators, and museum workers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 4,700 openings for archivists, curators, and museum workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. 

Qualifications For Becoming A Museum Curator

• Educational Background: A strong educational foundation is crucial for aspiring museum curators. Most curators hold at least a master’s degree in a relevant field such as museum studies, art history, archaeology, anthropology, or history. These specialised degrees provide a comprehensive understanding of museum practices, collection management, exhibition curation, and art conservation. Additionally, coursework in research methodologies and cultural heritage preservation equips curators with essential skills for their role.
• Research Acumen: Successful curators possess exemplary research skills . They delve deep into historical archives, art collections, and cultural resources to discover and authenticate artefacts or artworks. By immersing themselves in extensive research, curators gain the insights needed to present a cohesive and engaging narrative within their exhibitions. A keen eye for detail, historical context, and cultural significance allows curators to select artefacts that align with the museum’s vision and mission.
• Hands-On Experience: Practical experience is invaluable for curators aiming to excel in their careers. Internships or volunteer opportunities at museums, galleries, historical institutions, or cultural organisations offer aspiring curators a chance to work closely with professional curators and other museum staff. This hands-on experience provides exposure to various curatorial tasks, including cataloguing, conservation, exhibition planning, and public engagement. Moreover, it helps aspiring curators build a network of industry contacts and gain insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of a curator.
• Specialisation and Expertise: While a broad knowledge of art and history is essential, successful curators often choose to specialise in particular areas. By focusing on specific periods, artistic movements, cultural themes, or regions, curators develop expertise in their chosen field. This specialisation enables curators to curate exhibitions that are not only informative but also deeply insightful and compelling. A specialised approach showcases a curator’s passion and dedication to their craft, making them valuable assets to museums seeking to create focused and meaningful exhibits.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication is a cornerstone of a curator’s role. Curators must skillfully convey complex historical and artistic information to diverse audiences, including visitors, scholars, donors, and media representatives. Strong writing skills are crucial for developing informative exhibit labels, catalogues, and educational materials. Additionally, curators often engage in public speaking, offering guided tours, lectures, and workshops. Excellent communication abilities enable curators to connect with audiences, making their exhibits accessible and engaging for all.
• Technological Proficiency: In today’s digital era, curators must be tech-savvy to keep pace with evolving museum practices. Proficiency in multimedia tools, virtual exhibits, and digital storytelling enhances a curator’s ability to create innovative and interactive museum experiences. Embracing digital platforms allows curators to engage with wider audiences and enrich the visitor experience. Whether integrating augmented reality features or crafting interactive touchscreens, technological prowess empowers curators to transcend traditional exhibit boundaries and offer immersive journeys through art and history.

The Art Of Curating: A Day In The Life Of A Museum Curator

Curating is a meticulous and exciting process that unfolds in various stages, each requiring a curator’s expertise and creative touch.

Research and Collection Building:

• Conducting extensive research on potential artefacts or artworks to enrich the museum’s collection.
• Building connections with collectors, donors, and auction houses to acquire significant pieces.
• Nurturing relationships with artists, historians, and scholars for collaborations and loans.

Exhibition Planning:

• Crafting a captivating storyline and thematic concept for the exhibit.
• Collaborating with designers and conservationists to ensure the preservation and display of artefacts.
• Creating a cohesive layout and flow that guides visitors through a transformative experience.

Artefact Preservation:

• Overseeing the conservation and restoration of delicate artworks and historical artefacts.
• Implementing measures to safeguard artefacts from environmental and handling risks.

Public Engagement:

• Conducting guided tours, lectures, and workshops to engage and educate visitors.
• Participating in media interviews and public events to promote the museum’s exhibits.

The Ever-Evolving Landscape Of Museum Curators

Museum curators are at the forefront of preserving our cultural heritage, and the field continues to evolve to meet the demands of the digital era.

• Embracing Virtual Exhibits: In recent years, virtual exhibits have gained popularity, allowing curators to reach global audiences beyond physical museum walls. The integration of interactive technologies enhances the visitor experience.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Curators play a vital role in promoting diversity and inclusivity in museum exhibits, incorporating narratives from underrepresented communities to foster a more inclusive understanding of history and culture.
• Environmental Sustainability: With growing awareness of environmental conservation, curators are adopting eco-friendly practices in artefact preservation and exhibit design.

Paving Your Path To Curatorial Success With Mentoria

Becoming a museum curator is a rewarding and fulfilling career path that requires a unique blend of qualifications and skills. As you embark on your journey to curatorial success, keep these essential qualifications in mind to stand out in the competitive field of museum curation.

As you develop your qualifications, don’t underestimate the power of mentorship and guidance. Mentoria is here to support you on your journey to becoming a museum curator. Our experienced career counsellors can provide personalised coaching, helping you navigate the curatorial world with confidence and knowledge. Whether you’re seeking advice on educational choices, career opportunities, or networking strategies, Mentoria is your partner in curatorial success.

So, if you have a passion for art, culture, and storytelling, seize the opportunity to embark on a rewarding career as a museum curator. Equip yourself with the qualifications and skills needed to curate captivating exhibitions that leave a lasting impact on the world.

Choose your ideal path from 12,000+ career options.

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Job Jumpstart

Why personal presentation is so important.

Did you know it takes only a few seconds to form a first impression of someone?

An employer will have likely formed an impression of you before you’ve even had a chance to say hello.

Why is good personal presentation so important when meeting employers?

First impressions are really important when meeting employers. Employers will likely make assumptions about you based on how you look and dress. To make a positive first impression, take some time to think about what message your personal appearance and body language might be sending.

Consider the following:

• Your physical appearance. Are you wearing clean and neat clothes? Is your hair clean and brushed?

Dressing well shows the employer you are taking them seriously. It can also help you feel more confident and professional.

• Your body language . Are you smiling? Making eye contact? Is you posture good?

Positive body language can show the employer that you are genuinely interested in meeting them.

• How you speak to and get along with others. Are you being friendly and polite to everyone you meet?

This can show an employer how well you interact with others around you. This can also show them how you might fit into their workplace.

These tips can help you ensure you make a good first impression:

1. dress the part.

Think carefully about what to wear to an interview.

Show the employer that you are serious about the job by putting effort into your clothing.

So what should you wear? 

• For a professional office job. Wear business attire (clean and ironed). Keep makeup and jewellery to a minimum.
• Casual and less conservative setting (for example retail, hospitality or a trades position). Try to dress up rather than down and go for neat, clean and ironed at a minimum. Remember that what you see workers wearing on the job might not reflect what the employer expects applicants to wear at an interview, so always dress a little better.

2. Do your hair

Make sure your hair is clean and tidy. If it is long, tie it back so it's not in your eyes. Employers have told us that applicants who have untidy or dirty hair do not leave a good impression.

3. Watch your body language

Employers are impressed by job seekers who:

• smile and are friendly
• make eye contact
• have good posture (it makes you appear more confident).

Practise meeting an employer for the first time in front of a mirror. This can give you immediate feedback on how you appear to an employer.

These tools can help you:

Networking and personal presentation.

Tips to help you network and present you best self to employers.

Personal presentation tips

Tips on presenting well at interview.

Succeeding at job interviews

Use this workbook to help you prepare for a job interview.

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12 Ways to Improve Your Presentation Skills [for Work & Life]

According to research by the National Institute of Mental Health, around 75% of people list public speaking as their number one fear , even higher than their fear of death! 

At the same time, though, presentation skills are among the most in-demand skills for just about any job out there . 

Want to get over your fear of public speaking, improve your presentation skills, and give your career a huge boost?

You’re in the right place! This article is here to tell you everything you need to know about presentation skills from A to Z: 

• 9 Types of Presentations and Delivery Methods
• 12 Steps to Giving Better Presentations
• 5 Ways to Improve Your Presentation Skills

How to Add Your Presentation Skills to Your Resume

And more! Let’s dive in. 

What Are Presentation Skills?

Presentation skills are soft skills that allow you to present information clearly in front of an audience.

As such, these skills come in handy in all kinds of situations, including:

• Work. For example, giving a presentation in front of your team, pitching a new idea, etc.
• School or university. E.g., giving an oral presentation about a subject or presenting a master's thesis.
• Personal life. E.g. giving a speech at your best friend’s wedding or a toast at a restaurant.

No matter the situation, people with strong presentation skills typically possess the following skills:

• Body language
• Public speaking
• Communication skills
• Emotional intelligence

Why Are Presentation Skills Important?

But, what exactly makes presentation skills so important in basically every life area? 

Here are their most noteworthy benefits: 

• Increased employability. Presentation skills come in handy for many positions across all industries. 70% of respondents in a Prezi study said that presentation skills are critical for career success. As such, presentation skills are transferable skills that can instantly make you more employable.
• Higher academic performance. In the US, most university classes involve a presentation assignment or two. As such, being good at presenting is essential if you want to succeed academically.
• Effective networking. Having great presentation skills translates into great communication skills, which, in turn, helps you get better at professional networking .
• Improved confidence. Being able to speak in front of an audience can be a serious confidence booster, easily translating to other areas in life.

9 Types of Presentation and Delivery Methods

There are several types of presentations out there. 

Some presentations are meant to inspire the audience (such as motivational talks), while others are simply meant to instruct or inform (HR giving a presentation about company policies to new employees). 

Here are the five most common types of presentations, explained: 

• Persuasive presentations are meant to persuade the audience to make a decision, support a cause, side with a particular argument, and so on. A salesman pitching a product to a potential customer is an example of a persuasive presentation.
• Informative presentations aim to inform the audience about a topic, procedure, product, benefit, etc. An example of an informative presentation is a weatherman reading the weather report on TV.
• Inspirational presentations are meant to inspire the audience and potentially boost their confidence or morale. In a business setting, inspirational presentations are meant to motivate employees to perform better or get through tough times. In day-to-day life, on the other hand, an inspirational presentation could be trying to motivate a friend to do better at school.
• Educational presentations , just like the name implies, aim to educate the audience. Professors giving a lecture or tour guides speaking to museum visitors are examples of educational presentations.
• Instructional presentations are about instructing or guiding the audience on a set of guidelines, a new policy, a certain law, etc. An example of an instructional presentation is a flight attendant instructing passengers on what to do in case of an emergency.

On the same note, there are also 4 common ways presentations are delivered: 

• Extemporaneous presentations. These presentations are planned, but you deliver them without preparation.
• Manuscript presentations are presentations you deliver based on a script or notes.
• Impromptu presentations aren’t planned but rather delivered on the spot.
• Memorized presentations are those you learn by heart from start to finish.

11 Tips on How to Give Better Presentations

Looking to improve your presentation skills?

There’s good news and bad news.

The good news is that, with enough practice, you can get really good at delivering presentations.

The bad news, though, is that just like any other soft skill, in order to get good at delivering presentations, you’ll have to practice a lot.

To help get you started, below, we’re going to cover 12 of our best tips on how to improve your presentation skills, starting with:

#1. Prepare your presentation in advance

Impromptu presentations don’t happen that often in real life. Most times, you’ll have enough time to prepare for your presentation. 

Needless to say, you should use that time to your advantage. Don’t just make mental notes of what you’ll say during your presentation and call it a day, but actually plan it out from start to finish. 

When preparing your presentation in advance, make sure to consider the following points:

• What type of presentation are you making?
• What is your speech delivery method?
• How are you going to grab the audience’s attention from the get-go?
• What are the main points you need to cover?
• What is the best way to make the conclusion memorable?
• How much time do you have at your disposal?
• What visual aids and multimedia can you use?
• What does the audience expect to see/hear?

#2. Practice as much as possible

Just like with any other soft skill, the best way to hone your presentation skills is to practice as much as possible.

Some ways you can practice your presentation skills are:

• In front of a mirror or in front of your friends and family.
• Watch TED talks to get inspired and learn what good presentation skills look like.
• Read books on communication, presentation, and public speaking.
• Take extensive notes of what you need to improve. 
• Record and time yourself when doing presentations.
• Hire a public speaking coach on Fiverr or another platform.
• Take a public speaking course at your local community college.

The more you practice, the better your presentation skills are going to get.

Also, when practicing, make sure to pay attention to your tonality, body language, and whether you’re using a lot of crutch words .

#3. Exercise

Yes, really.

Exercise can help improve your presentation skills!

Some ways it does so are:

• It boosts the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, all of which are known to improve your mood and regulate your anxiety. 
• It improves your ability to focus and pay attention, benefits which can last for up to two hours after your workout .
• It strengthens and protects your memory, making it easy to recall words. 

Now, when it comes to how much you should exercise, that can differ from one person to the next.

We say - find a golden mean that works best for you. If you’re not big on exercising, you can always start small with something casual like biking to work or playing a sport once or twice a week. 

#4. Arrive early

By arriving early for your presentation, you can deal with any possible setbacks (e.g. mic not working, USB failure, wardrobe malfunction, etc). 

This will give you plenty of time to start your presentation on your terms, instead of running around trying to fix things at the last minute. 

Not to mention, in certain situations arriving early can also help you to prepare mentally and emotionally for the upcoming presentation. 

Obviously, a casual presentation in front of coworkers won’t require much emotional preparation. But if you have to, say, pitch a marketing idea to your clients or address a room full of strangers, getting to exchange some words with them before the presentation could break the ice and make it easier to engage with them later on. 

#5. Know your audience

You should always keep your audience in mind when making (and delivering) a presentation. 

At the end of the day, if your message is not tailored to its audience, chances are, it’s going to fall flat.

If your audience is a group of 50-somethings, high-level executives, chances are they won’t get your Rick and Morty references or appreciate any attempts to keep the presentation light, casual, and humorous. 

Instead, stick to talking about facts and figures without any joking around, use straightforward language, and avoid over-the-top body language while delivering the presentation. 

If on the other hand, you’re delivering a presentation to your class of 20-somethings, then you’re a lot more likely to make an impact if you joke around, make references, and make the presentation more casual.

In short, if you want your presentation to carry as much impact as possible, make sure to think about who you’re presenting to. 

#6. Use Relaxation Techniques

Even the most seasoned public speakers experience some level of anxiety before giving a presentation.

To make sure nerves and anxiety don’t throw you off your A-game, you can take advantage of relaxation techniques. 

One of the simplest (and most effective) ways to relax before a presentation is to breathe.  

When we say breathing, though, we don’t mean the automatic in-and-out we do to stay alive. We mean taking deep, relaxing breaths from your stomach while being mindful of what you’re doing. 

Here’s how breathing mindfully before your presentation can help you give a better presentation: 

• Calms your nerves
• Reduces stress 
• Helps with anxiety 

To practice mindful breathing, focus on breathing from your stomach and push your stomach out each time you inhale. When you’re inhaling and exhaling, count to at least three for each breath. 

Keep doing this and you’ll soon start feeling more relaxed. 

#7. Acknowledge That You’re Nervous

People appreciate honesty. 

If you go on stage feeling extremely nervous, use this neat little trick:

Instead of trying to play it cool, simply acknowledge that you’re feeling nervous by straight-up saying it.

Chances are, a very large chunk of your audience feels exactly the same way about public speaking, and you’ll build up some rapport just like that!

This same exact tip even applies to job interviews. You can simply tell the recruiters that you’re feeling nervous and need a minute - that’s totally acceptable!

Unless you’re applying for a job in sales, the job interviewer is not going to be evaluating you on how good you are at passing interviews.

#8. Tell stories

Storytelling is a powerful presentation tool. According to the Guardian, 63% of presentation attendees remember stories , while only 5% remember statistics.

That’s because a good story can take the audience on a journey, intrigue them, inspire them, and motivate them. In turn, they’re much more likely to remember your presentation.

There are several ways you can go about incorporating stories into your presentation. 

One is to tie your own stories, along with what you experienced, learned, or observed, to make your argument more impactful and relatable. Alternatively, you can also create a story for the sake of the presentation that can be just as impactful in driving your point across. 

Keep in mind, though, that not every presentation requires storytelling. If your presentation is packed with data and stats showing how you managed to improve profits by 20% in the last quarter, for example, then you don’t really need to include a story in there to make it impactful. 

#9. Be humorous

This one’s quite self-explanatory; as much as you can, be humorous during your presentation. It helps ease tension, get the attention of everyone in the room, and connect with them more effectively. 

Now, some people are born with humor. If you’re one of them, cracking a joke here and there should come very naturally to you. 

Otherwise, you can practice your presentation in front of your friends and family and prepare your jokes in advance. If your mock audience laughs at your jokes, chances are, so will your real audience!

#10. Use visual aids and media

Using visuals and other media forms (e.g. music, videos, infographics, etc.), can make your presentation significantly more engaging, memorable, and striking. 

Say, for example, that your presentation consists entirely of numbers and data. You can use data visualization (e.g. charts, graphs, and maps), to make the data stick with your audience better. 

Or, if you’re a lecturer at a university, you’ll want to use as many pictures, videos, and even music to help your students remember the information you’re transmitting. 

Some of the most popular ways to make your presentations as visual as possible involve using:

• Whiteboards
• Presentation applications 

#11. Engage the audience

To give a truly memorable presentation, engage your audience as much as possible. 

Instead of speaking to your audience, try to speak with your audience.

What we mean by this is that you should be very proactive in getting your audience involved in your presentation. Ask questions, get them to share stories, and so on. 

Some examples of how you can effectively engage an audience are: 

• Asking a random audience member to share their experience on a topic.
• Doing a count of hands (e.g. “Has anyone done X? Can I see a count of hands?” or “Which one of you guys likes Y? Raise your hands.” )
• Do an on-the-spot poll (e.g. “How many of you guys do X?” or “how many of you guys think Y?” )
• Making time for a Q&A at the end of your presentation. 

6 Ways to Improve Your Presentation Skills

Just like any other skill, presentation skills can be learned and improved. So, if you’re looking to improve your presentation skills, follow the tips below: 

• Take every public speaking opportunity you get. The best way to learn presentation skills is by doing it. So, take every opportunity you get. E.g. volunteer to present a project, say a toast at your friend's wedding, etc.
• Check these TED talks. Is there anything TED talks haven’t covered? Check out these talks that can teach you how to give awesome presentations: “ Giving Presentations Worth Listening To ”, “ the secret structure of great talks ,” and “ the science of stage fright (and how to overcome it) ”. 
• Take public speaking classes. Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn all have great public speaking courses. Or, even better, take a class at your local college. This way, you’ll get a lot more practice than by taking an online class. 
• Attend other presentations. This one’s pretty self-explanatory. The more presentations you attend, the more you can learn from others’ successes or failures. 
• Grow your confidence. Speak in front of friends and family, film yourself, and accept constructive criticism. Soon enough, you’ll be confident enough to give excellent presentations!
• Ask for feedback. How can you improve your presentation skills if you don’t know where you’re lacking? After your presentation, ask one or two members of your audience for personal, one-on-one feedback on how you did. 

If you want to show a potential employer that you’ve got presentation skills, you’ll need to highlight them on your resume.

And in this section, we’ll teach you just how to do that!

Before you do that, though, make sure to grab one of our free resume templates!

#1. List Your Presentation Skills Under Your Soft Skills 

The first and most obvious place to list your presentation skills is under your skills section . 

This part is pretty straightforward. Your skills section should be divided into “soft skills” and “hard skills” and look something like this: 

Simply add “Presentation Skills” under the “Soft Skills” section, and you’re good to go.

#2. Mention Your Presentation Skills in Your Resume Summary 

If presentation skills are super important for the role you’re applying for, you can also include them in your resume summary : 

In a nutshell, the resume summary is a short paragraph on top of your resume that typically mentions: 

• Your title and years of experience 
• Your most noteworthy achievements
• Your top skills and qualifications

Done right, this section should highlight all your strong points right from the get-go and get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in more detail. 

Here’s an example of a resume summary that effectively mentions the candidate’s presentation skills: 

• Sales professional with 7 years of experience in sales presentations and lead generation. Excellent public speaking skills. Track record of converting prospects into loyal customers.

#3. Prove Presentation Skills Through Your Work Experience 

Lastly (and most importantly), you should use your work experience section to prove that you’ve got the presentation skills you mentioned in your skills section.

Here’s exactly how you can do that: 

• Keep your work experience section relevant. List recent and relevant positions. Omit outdated and irrelevant ones. For example, if you’re applying for a customer service position, you can mention the time you worked, say, as a receptionist. Your teen job mowing lawns, on the other hand? Not as important. 
• Focus on achievements instead of responsibilities. Instead of telling the hiring manager what they already know (your responsibilities), focus on showing them how you made an impact with your achievements. A way to do that is to write down a couple of achievements for every presentation skill that you include under your soft skills. 
• Make your achievements quantifiable . Adding numbers to your achievements makes them significantly more impressive. “Delivered a presentation that closed a 6-figure client” is a lot more powerful than “Delivered client presentations,” right?
• Use action verbs and power words. Presentation skills are also about how you present yourself in your resume. Avoid dry and unimaginative language and go for these action verbs and power words instead.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s about all you need to know to improve your presentation skills!

Before you go, though, here’s a quick recap of everything we covered in this article:

• Presentation skills are soft skills that allow you to present information clearly and convey your message effectively. 
• Some important presentation skills include public speaking, communication, persuasion, creativity, humor, and emotional intelligence. 
• Presentation skills can increase your employability, improve your academic performance, make it easier to network, and help you grow professionally. 
• Some steps you can take to give better presentations are to prepare in advance, practice as much as possible, exercise regularly, be humorous, use visual aids and multimedia, engage the audience, and accept that you’re nervous. 
• To improve your presentation skills, watch videos that teach you how to give great presentations, attend public speaking classes and other presentations, and grow your confidence. 
• List your presentation skills under your skills section, mention them in your resume summary, and prove them with your achievements in the work experience section.

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Strategies to Effectively Work with Museum Staff, Interns, and Volunteers

Rachael Cristine Woody

Effectively working in teams requires an established communication pattern, a unified training experience and instructions, and respect. 

Working in teams that involve a hybrid of staff, interns, and volunteers increases the level of difficulty in achieving effectiveness, but not enough to negate the validity of the approach.

The challenges with this type of hybrid team are:

• Interns and volunteers aren’t at the museum M-F, 40-hours a week. Their time is syncopated and finite.
• Interns and volunteers don’t necessarily come with the education or experience needed for some aspects of the digital project.
• As interns and volunteers aren’t employed by the museum, their commitment to the project may fluctuate.

The hybrid team is not without its benefits. Some benefits are:

• A more diverse pool of knowledge and experiences.
• The ability to increase capacity otherwise impossible without the interns and volunteers. 
• Offers an enrichment experience for all team members.

So, how do we navigate the challenges of a hybrid team within the context of museum digital projects? The following three elements are required: 

• An established communication pattern;
• A unified training experience and instructions; and 

Challenge 1: Team member timing is syncopated and finite.

Communication Strategy: A good communication strategy is key. The needs to be a centralized place where communication takes place. This can be a project management dashboard, an internal site (e.g. SharePoint or Google Drive), regularly scheduled virtual or in-person meetings, or even email. All team members should know where they can participate in communications regarding project details, updated timelines, noted issues, and relay other key pieces of information.

Challenge 2: Team members come with different levels of education and training.

Training Strategy: An effective training strategy is one that incorporates learning tools for as many preferred learning modes as possible. This means the inclusion of plain-speaking text, visuals, and audio-visual tutorials that are provided at the beginning of the project and can be referenced regularly by all team members. The training should also be a unified experience—meaning that all team members should go through it to ensure everyone is up to speed with how the digital project is to be executed.

Challenge 3: Team members not employed by the museum may fluctuate in their commitment.

Respect Strategy: Respect is a strategy that should be applied in any environment, and especially in situations where not everyone is being compensated for their work. In a hybrid team environment, the employed staff members and supervisors of the project need to audibly express gratitude for the team members’ work on a regular basis, and approach every interaction with showing these team members collegial respect. Afterall, you wouldn’t be able to do this project without them. Finally, when we know we’re valued and respected by our team, we tend to want to show up for them and our commitment is deepened.

As you can see, these strategies—communication, training, and respect—are elements that transcend any project type. However, they are even more important when working with a hybrid team on a fairly complex project that requires both educational and technical competencies. I encourage you to incorporate these strategies within all of your teams as you’ll find both the projects and the people will benefit from them.

Additional Reading

5 Steps to Museum Volunteer Project Success

Effective Technology Training for Museum Volunteers & Interns

How to Best Leverage Museum Volunteers

Webinar: How to Attract and Train the Best Volunteers  

And, of course, don’t forget to check out Lucidea’s webinar suite for more on digital projects. 

If you’d like to learn more about this topic, there’s still time to register here for Rachael’s webinar, “ Museum Digital Projects: Strategies for Working with Staff, Volunteers, or Interns ” today, July 27, 2022. Rachael Cristine Woody advises on museum strategies, digital museums, collections management, and grant writing for a wide variety of clients. In addition to several titles published by Lucidea Press, she is a regular contributo r to the Think Clearly blog and an always popular presenter

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The Importance of Presentation Skills: That You Must Know About

Uncover The Importance of Presentation Skills in this comprehensive blog. Begin with a brief introduction to the art of effective presentations and its wide-reaching significance. Delve into the vital role of presentation skills in both your personal and professional life, understanding how they can shape your success.

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Table of Contents  

1) A brief introduction to Presentation Skills 

2) Importance of Presentation Skills in personal life 

3) Importance of Presentation Skills in professional life 

4) Tips to improve your Presentation Skills 

5) Conclusion 

A brief introduction to Presentation Skills  

Presentation skills can be defined as the ability to deliver information confidently and persuasively to engage and influence the audience. Be it in personal or professional settings; mastering Presentation Skills empowers individuals to convey their ideas with clarity, build confidence, and leave a lasting impression. From public speaking to business pitches, honing these skills can lead to greater success in diverse spheres of life.  You can also refer to various presentation skills interview questions and answer to build you confidence! This blog will also look into the advantages and disadvantages of presentations .It is therefore important to understand the elements of presentations .

Importance of Presentation Skills in personal life  

Effective Presentation skills are not limited to professional settings alone; they play a significant role in personal life as well. Let us now dive deeper into the Importance of Presentation Skills in one’s personal life:    

Expressing ideas clearly   

In day-to-day conversations with family, friends, or acquaintances, having good Presentation skills enables you to articulate your thoughts and ideas clearly. Whether you're discussing plans for the weekend or sharing your opinions on a particular topic, being an effective communicator encourages better understanding and engagement. 

Enhancing social confidence  

Many individuals struggle with social anxiety or nervousness in social gatherings. Mastering Presentation skills helps boost self-confidence, making it easier to navigate social situations with ease. The ability to present yourself confidently and engage others in conversation enhances your social life and opens doors to new relationships. 

Creating memories on special occasions  

There are moments in life that call for public speaking, such as proposing a toast at a wedding, delivering a speech at a family gathering, or giving a Presentation during special events. Having polished Presentation skills enables you to leave a positive and lasting impression on the audience, making these occasions even more memorable. 

Handling challenging conversations  

Life often presents challenging situations that require delicate communication, such as expressing condolences or resolving conflicts. Strong Presentation skills help you convey your feelings and thoughts sensitively, encouraging effective and empathetic communication during difficult times. 

Building stronger relationships  

Being a skilled presenter means being a good listener as well. Active listening is a fundamental aspect of effective Presentations, and when applied in personal relationships, it strengthens bonds and builds trust. Empathising with others and showing genuine interest in their stories and opinions enhances the quality of your relationships. 

Advocating for personal goals  

Whether you're pursuing personal projects or seeking support for a cause you're passionate about, the ability to present your ideas persuasively helps garner support and enthusiasm from others. This can be beneficial in achieving personal goals and making a positive impact on your community. 

Inspiring and motivating others  

In one’s personal life, Presentation skills are not just about delivering formal speeches; they also involve inspiring and motivating others through your actions and words. Whether you're sharing your experiences, mentoring someone, or encouraging loved ones during tough times, your Presentation skills can be a source of inspiration for others. 

Exuding leadership traits  

Effective Presentation skills go hand in hand with leadership qualities. Being able to communicate clearly and influence others' perspectives positions you as a leader within your family, social circles, or community. Leadership in personal life involves guiding and supporting others towards positive outcomes. 

Unlock your full potential as a presenter with our Presentation Skills Training Course. Join now!  

Importance of Presentation Skills in professional life  

Effective Presentation skills are a vital asset for career growth and success in professional life. Let us now explore the importance of Presentation skills for students and workers:  

Impressing employers and clients  

During job interviews or business meetings, a well-delivered Presentation showcases your knowledge, confidence, and ability to communicate ideas effectively. It impresses employers, clients, and potential investors, leaving a positive and memorable impression that can tilt the scales in your favour. 

Advancing in your career  

In the corporate world, promotions and career advancements often involve presenting your achievements, ideas, and future plans to decision-makers. Strong Presentation skills demonstrate your leadership potential and readiness for higher responsibilities, opening doors to new opportunities. 

Effective team collaboration  

As a professional, you often need to present projects, strategies, or updates to your team or colleagues. A compelling Presentation facilitates better understanding and association among team members, leading to more productive and successful projects. 

Persuasive selling techniques  

For sales and marketing professionals, Presentation skills are instrumental in persuading potential customers to choose your products or services. An engaging sales pitch can sway buying decisions, leading to increased revenue and business growth. 

Creating impactful proposals  

In the corporate world, proposals are crucial for securing new partnerships or business deals. A well-structured and compelling Presentation can make your proposal stand out and increase the chances of successful negotiations. 

Gaining and retaining clients  

Whether you are a freelancer, consultant, or business owner, Presentation skills play a key role in winning and retaining clients. A captivating Presentation not only convinces clients of your capabilities but also builds trust and promotes long-term relationships. 

Enhancing public speaking engagements  

Professional life often involves speaking at conferences, seminars, or industry events. Being a confident and engaging speaker allows you to deliver your message effectively, position yourself as an expert, and expand your professional network. 

Influencing stakeholders and decision-makers  

As you climb the corporate ladder, you may find yourself presenting to senior management or board members. Effective Presentations are essential for gaining support for your ideas, projects, or initiatives from key stakeholders. 

Handling meetings and discussions  

In meetings, being able to present your thoughts clearly and concisely contributes to productive discussions and efficient decision-making. It ensures that your ideas are understood and considered by colleagues and superiors. 

Professional development  

Investing time in honing Presentation skills is a form of professional development. As you become a more effective presenter, you become a more valuable asset to your organisation and industry. 

Building a personal brand  

A strong personal brand is vital for professional success. Impressive Presentations contribute to building a positive reputation and positioning yourself as a thought leader or industry expert. 

Career transitions and interviews  

When seeking new opportunities or transitioning to a different industry, Presentation Skills are essential for communicating your transferable skills and showcasing your adaptability to potential employers. 

Take your Presentations to the next level with our Effective Presentation Skills & Techniques Course. Sign up today!  

Tips to improve your Presentation Skills  

Now that you know about the importance of presentation skills in personal and professional life, we will now provide you with tips to Improve Your Presentation Skills .

1) Know your audience: Understand the demographics and interests of your audience to tailor your Presentation accordingly. 

2) Practice regularly: Rehearse your speech multiple times to refine content and delivery. 

3) Seek feedback: Gather feedback from peers or mentors to identify areas for improvement. 

4) Manage nervousness: Use relaxation techniques to overcome nervousness before presenting. 

5) Engage with eye contact: Maintain eye contact with the audience to establish a connection. 

6) Use clear visuals: Utilise impactful visuals to complement your spoken words. 

7) Emphasise key points: Highlight important information to enhance audience retention. 

8) Employ body language: Use confident and purposeful gestures to convey your message. 

9) Handle Q&A confidently: Prepare for potential questions and answer them with clarity. 

10) Add personal stories: Include relevant anecdotes to make your Presentation more relatable.   

All in all, Presentation skills are a valuable asset, impacting both personal and professional realms of life. By mastering these skills, you can become a more effective communicator, a confident professional, and a persuasive influencer. Continuous improvement and adaptation to technological advancements will ensure you stay ahead in this competitive world. 

Want to master the art of impactful Presentations? Explore our Presentation Skills Courses and elevate your communication prowess!  

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How important is Personal Presentation in the Workplace?

• June 21, 2022

The short answer …VERY!

Personal presentation is how you portray yourself to other people. It includes the way you look, speak and move and is part of your communication skills. Communication is one of the most important life and work skills you need to be successful 🤓

Your personal presentation is made of: 👗Appearance – from wearing well presented clothes. 🗣Body Language – From the way you smile to the way you shake hands and your ability to make eye contact.

🧠Behaviour – your attitudes and behaviours towards situations and people are part of your your personal branding.

Within the first few seconds, we are judged based on our appearance and body language 😬

✨ Tips for making the most out of your Personal Presentation include:

✅ Dressing for the occasion. Don’t change your entire style every time you have to present. This is about adapting your own style to the situation.

✅ Practice power moves – Standing tall, power stances first thing in the morning, shoulders back – these contribute to looking confident.

✅ Affirmations – Make a list of your “I am” statements for those important occasions.

I am currently taking bookings for 1 day corporate workshops on Personal Presentation. If this is something you are interested in please feel free to email me at:  [email protected]

Privacy Overview

How Personal Presentation plays an important role in the workplace?

What is personal presentation in the workplace and why is personal presentation important?

What is personal presentation in the workplace?

Personal presentation is how you portray yourself to other people. Your personal presentation includes everything from the way you look , to the way you speak and move . Personal presentation is part of the communication skills, and communication is one of the five important life and work skills you need to build as a professional. Personal presentation means the way you present yourself in everyday situations, including the most stressful ones like job interviews.

Your personal presentation is made of several elements including (but not limited to) the following:

Physical appearance

Your physical appearance is a major part of your personal presentation. It includes everything we can see about you from wearing clean clothes, having clean and brushed hair and being well-groomed to the colour and style of your clothes and accessories.

Body language

Your body language plays an essential part in your personal presentation. From the way you smile to the way you shake hands and your ability to make eye contact, your non-verbal communication significantly impacts your personal presentation.

Attitudes and behaviours

We can consider that your attitudes and behaviours towards situations and people are part of your personal presentation (and your personal branding ) . The way you speak to and get along with others definitely impacts your personal presentation and what people think about you. Are you being friendly, kind and polite every time you can?

Why is personal presentation important?

With the above definition of personal presentation, it seems essential to learn how to give the right impression through how we look, what we say, and what we do .

We know that within the first few seconds, we are judged based on our appearance and body language. No matter how relevant and interesting our message is, if our personal presentation is not appropriate, people will hardly listen to our message. Working on our personal presentation is the first step to develop effective presentation skills .

Our personal presentation is helping us to fit in by following certain codes of conduct and corporate styling principles. When getting ready to facilitate a workshop, I always adapt my personal presentation to the company I visit with a focus on the company’s industry. No matter how comfortable and fashionable my workout outfit looks, it is not relevant or appropriate to my activity.

A few years back, I was helping a client getting back to the workplace as a chef. She was having a multiple of interviews, she had amazing cooking skills but still couldn't find a job. She decided to use my personal branding and image consulting services to boost her success. The first (and last) coaching session was enough to understand what was going wrong and to adjust the situation. My talented coachee came to our session dressed for interviews and I could immediately spot that her issue was based on her personal presentation. She looked beautiful but she was overdressed for the occasion. She was wearing high heels, a lot of make-up, a complicated hairstyle and fake nails. I looked at her from a recruiter’s point of view and understood why nobody would hire her! The only thing a recruiter can think is that she will be late in the morning to get ready, she will then spend hours in the bathroom to stay stunning, she will never be able to stand on those heels all day, and she might lose a nail or two in the cooking pots and plates. My client dressed like that with the best intentions, to give a positive first impression; it was just not appropriate and relevant to the situation. Together, we selected a few appropriate outfits making her look like a chef at work instead of a fashion icon. Immediately after our session, she dared to reapply to her favourite opportunity and successfully got the job. I guess the lesson here is to dress for the occasion .

How to make the most from your personal presentation?

As mentioned above, the best thing to do is to dress for the occasion. Dressing for the occasion doesn’t mean that you need to change your entire style and feel like wearing a Halloween costume every time you get out. Dressing for the occasion is about adapting your own style to the situation . It might mean being more classy, trying to look more serious or professional, or if you are evolving in a creative environment it might mean showing off your creativity.

When feeling lost about the dress code, simply observe people around you; how do people dress on such occasions, what do they wear when working in this company? It will give you some guidance to pick and choose your outfit and accessories.

Because your personal presentation isn’t only about your appearance, you will pay attention to your body language and non-verbal signals as well as your behaviours.

Maud Vanhoutte

Related articles:

Dressing for job interviews: 10 Dos and Don'ts

How to express your style when wearing a medical coat

Why first impression matters

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How subtle presentation enhances art’s power

I f an exhibition is designed well, visitors should notice only the art. That might be disheartening for some of the people who choose the wall colour and the arrangement of the objects on display, but it’s a badge of honour for David Gleeson, senior exhibition designer at Washington DC’s Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM). “We don’t want to impose ourselves,” Gleeson says. “A lot of what we do is sort of behind the scenes, unlike theatrical designs.”

Gleeson leads the design team responsible for exhibitions in SAAM’s Patent Office space and its arts and crafts extension, the Renwick Gallery , which has reopened after a two-year, $30m renovation. At the Renwick, a historic building near the White House, Gleeson also was in charge of creating a new aesthetic, which involved everything from choosing paint colours to designing a reception desk and benches for visitors.

It’s a decidedly modern approach to historic preservation. “Everything is pared back, cleaner, and brighter and lighter,” Gleeson says. “All of the architectural elements are still there, and highlighted. But it’s going to be a lot easier to enjoy the artwork with this pared-back, minimalist approach.”

From the anthracite palette of greens and greys to modern lighting and postmodern gold leafing, Gleeson and his staff have transformed the space. But even as they have replaced dark-red walls with bright whites and greys, they’ve also uncovered – and emphasised – decorative mouldings, vaulted ceilings and stately windows that were hidden from view.

“We’re mindful to the historic significance, of preserving everything we had,” he says. “It’s all there, and the subtle colour palette is highlighting it.”

Gleeson, 52, a designer at SAAM since 2006, stumbled into his career. The Maryland resident grew up in Bruff, a small town in County Limerick, Ireland, where his family owned a dairy farm and a public house. He attended the Limerick School of Art and Design , then came to the US in 1984 to attend Penn State, where he earned a master of fine arts in sculpture. He went back to Ireland but returned to the US in 1989 to work at the Maryland Science Centre. After rising through the design ranks there, Gleeson moved to the Smithsonian. Outside of his job, his artistic sensibilities extend to sculpting and furniture-making.

One of the joys of working at the museum is his encounters with artists. “It’s a fabulous opportunity to engage with all of these nationally and internationally known artists and to understand their processes,” he says. “I find that fascinating.”

One of the biggest myths of his profession, Gleeson says, is the amount of time spent on artistic endeavours. Yes, he and his team are charged with conveying ideas visually and making exhibitions aesthetically pleasing, but that’s just the beginning.

“For every hour we spend pondering design challenges and visual layouts, we spend four to five hours project-managing and coordinating,” he says. “It’s not about sitting at your desk and coming up with fabulous visualisations. It’s about engaging with contractors, conservators, curators. It’s all about the planning.”

The scope of Gleeson’s responsibilities was evident on a recent morning at the Renwick, where dozens of construction workers were busy on scaffolds throughout the building. Wearing a hard hat and safety goggles, Gleeson moved from one gallery to the next, checking on progress. He and his team are juggling eight or nine projects simultaneously, moving each along to stay on time and on budget. “We’re like the theatre – there’s no missing deadlines,” he says. “You cannot open a show after the opening day. But that’s the fun of the job, too.”

When the hectic pace starts to take its toll, Gleeson turns to his art. Unlike the complex collaborations at the museum, it’s a solo endeavour. “There’s a therapeutic side to that. You immerse yourself in your own ideas, and you have full control over what you’re doing,” he says. “And it’s still visual problem-solving.”

This article appeared in Guardian Weekly , which incorporates material from the Washington Post

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How can museums improve their staff wellbeing?

In any workplace, staff wellbeing plays a vital role in ensuring that the environment is healthy, harmonious and productive. Without a valued team that pulls in the same direction, no organisation can hope to achieve its long-term objectives.

With a variety of mental health problems estimated to cost employers up to £42 billion per year, according to the UK government’s recent Thriving at Work Report , it’s safe to say that the promotion of good staff health and wellbeing is a fundamental aspect of the modern day workplace.

Of course, we are (hopefully) emerging from an unprecedented period in history; a time during which wellbeing has suffered and in which employers around the globe have become conscious of the need to place greater emphasis on employee wellbeing. This is particularly critical given that the ability to nurture personal bonds and a sense of community have been inhibited for so long. Indeed, for those now working remotely on a more permanent basis, it promises to be an ongoing challenge that organisations must address rather than ignore.

In the case of museums – places and spaces that are expected to inspire, engage and entertain – it is particularly crucial that those who create cultural experiences feel valued and comfortable enough to do so. And let’s be honest: if a museum environment can’t be one that enhances wellbeing, then surely there’s little hope for other industries and sectors.

The importance of wellbeing in the workplace

By investing time and resources into workplace wellbeing, museum staff and the wider institution can benefit dramatically. Simply asking the question: “Do our employees have what they need to work at their best” can yield solutions that ultimately contribute towards physical, psychological emotional and social improvements.

Although employee wellbeing should certainly focus on the welfare of staff, it is important to acknowledge that employers also benefit from employee wellbeing and employee engagement initiatives. While teams should be made to feel happy and healthy on a human level for compassionate reasons, we shouldn’t be shy about promoting the fact that it genuinely makes good business sense.

With a more proactive approach to wellbeing within the workplace, museum staff feel more valued, and institutions receive greater loyalty and productivity in return. With increased commitment and heightened morale comes better retention. This means reduced recruitment costs and a greater opportunity to develop staff members over time.

On the ground, relations between team members becomes more positive and productive, and the workforce performs better.

Museums: the perfect place to support wellbeing

Museums are well known for the benefits they offer visitors. From alleviating stress and anxiety to reducing social isolation to boosting self-esteem, cultural spaces have been shown to possess important therapeutic properties.

And while it may seem inevitable that those working within museum spaces should have no problem in retaining a happy, healthy state of mind, it is nevertheless important that time and resources are put into using those assets to nurture a positive environment for staff as well as visitors.

Often this can be achieved by simply protecting personal time for self-care – safeguarding lunch breaks and respecting designated working hours, for example. Providing time for people to step away from the day-to-day grind and instead be present in their surroundings is a subtle but highly impactful step that all museums can take.

Alongside this adherence to professional boundaries, museums may run regular schemes and activities for staff to successfully to enhance wellbeing. Whether that’s mindfulness sessions in the workplace, or even hand massage workshops  to relax and soothe hard working employees, there is always room for institutions to think outside the box when it comes to protecting and rewarding staff.

It is also necessary to acknowledge that employees’ sense of worth often stems from feeling heard and valued by their employer. At a time when museums speak often about inclusivity and support for those who may feel marginalised, it is important that they seek to practice what they preach. This may involve the creation of forums, safe spaces and pathways for individuals to share ideas, air grievances or seek to develop their career.

Whether training the team for better wellbeing, modifying existing resources or introducing new practices, the key is to ask how positivity, kindness, communication and collaboration can be encouraged. Never underestimate the power of those little things; a cosy staff room or open door policy can make a big difference to someone’s day.

Something as simple as a conversation between individual staff members can have a profoundly positive impact and inspire the next step towards better wellbeing support.

And finally…

All too often organisations feel that they must drive employee wellbeing initiatives. In reality, often the best programmes develop by encouraging staff to propose and introduce their own initiatives. Employees are certain to have their own ideas about how they can be better supported, and it’s important that the institution is ready and willing to take these on-board.

Find out more about health and wellbeing in museums at the upcoming Museums, Health and Wellbeing Summit running 31 st January – 2 nd February 2022.

About the author – Tim Deakin

Tim Deakin is a journalist and editorial consultant working with a broad range of online publications.

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What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation

• Carmine Gallo

Five tips to set yourself apart.

Never underestimate the power of great communication. It can help you land the job of your dreams, attract investors to back your idea, or elevate your stature within your organization. But while there are plenty of good speakers in the world, you can set yourself apart out by being the person who can deliver something great over and over. Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired together are more memorable); don’t underestimate the power of your voice (raise and lower it for emphasis); give your audience something extra (unexpected moments will grab their attention); rehearse (the best speakers are the best because they practice — a lot).

I was sitting across the table from a Silicon Valley CEO who had pioneered a technology that touches many of our lives — the flash memory that stores data on smartphones, digital cameras, and computers. He was a frequent guest on CNBC and had been delivering business presentations for at least 20 years before we met. And yet, the CEO wanted to sharpen his public speaking skills.

• Carmine Gallo is a Harvard University instructor, keynote speaker, and author of 10 books translated into 40 languages. Gallo is the author of The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World’s Greatest Salesman  (St. Martin’s Press).

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Focus | Why work in museums?

Cast an eye over the staff list of a medium-sized UK museum and the variety of roles on offer might surprise you. Today’s treasure houses – from world-famous national museums, heritage sites and regional galleries to independent institutions, historic homes and town museums – all require a range of skills, knowledge and experience that casual visitors may not suspect.

While the size of a museum will in part determine the staff it has in-house, and many positions encompass different roles, departments in museums include:

• Visitor services and front-of-house
• Audience development, community, learning and education
• Facilities and estate management
• Marketing, media, digital and events
• Exhibitions, collections management and curatorial.

“It’s useful to have an idea of what kind of museum work you want to do because there are an enormous number of specialisms,” says Alistair Brown, the policy manager at the Museums Association (MA). The sector is an exciting place to work not just because of the amazing collections that institutions hold, but also because it provides a chance to shape how people see the world.

“That’s one of the most fascinating things you can do: encourage people to look twice at stories that they think they already know, introduce them to new ideas and change people’s lives,” Brown says.

The pandemic has brought immense challenges to the sector. The financial impact on museums means that jobs have been lost and hiring freezes are in place. Jobs at senior level as well as lower-paid posts are the most at risk of being made redundant, sending well-qualified people into the job market to pursue fewer vacancies.

The pandemic followed a period of economic austerity, which had already hit museums hard, with cuts to local authority and central government funding, fuelling the rise of short-term contracts, reliance on freelancers and job insecurity.

There are structural problems, too. Competition and demands for higher-level qualifications has made entering the sector difficult. Poor wages at lower levels are also a barrier to entry.

But the past few years have also seen the emergence of a new sensibility in museums, one that is mindful of these limitations and keen to address them. Recruitment practices are also changing, though slowly, says Tamsin Russell, the MA’s workforce development officer.

For students or people hoping to work in museums, volunteering remains an excellent way of getting to know the sector and gaining experience and contacts. Most venues have structured volunteering programmes that ensure participants get what they need from the experience as well as vice versa. And the union Prospect accepts volunteers as members to help protect them and also avoid undermining the professionalism of the sector.

Following job vacancies – which you can find on the MA website as well other sites and via social media – enables you to better understand the skills and experience you need for the jobs you’d like to apply for. If you are interested in a role, contact the postholder and see if they will share how they got there. It’s also important to follow developments in the sector and to keep up-to-date with current practice and standards.

Competition remains keen, so when applying for an internship, voluntary work or a paid position, think about how you can draw on your experience of other jobs and roles – and think creatively about how to package it, says Russell.

Digital skills, such as running personal social media accounts and working with databases, as well as organising teams for a student society, are all transferable skills that are useful to museums. And dealing with customers via work experience in a pub or restaurant can be rebranded as problem-solving.

In the early part of your career, you can capitalise on professional development opportunities by knowing what you want to develop and seeking it out.

“Professional development needs to be purposeful. Think what it is that you want or need to have to move ahead in your career,” Russell says.

Julie Nightingale is a freelance writer

Think creatively Kate Knowlden did a master’s in curation at Norwich University of Arts and is now the curator of the Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket in Suffolk, where her role includes managing an Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund and Headley Trust supported project to reinterpret collections. She was drawn to the sector through her love of history and enthusiasm for lifelong learning. Knowlden volunteered with the collections team at the National Trust-run Ickworth House near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, to gain experience. “If you are able to get experience volunteering, do as much as you can and take any opportunities that come your way,” she says. “If that doesn’t work for you, look at other routes into the sector. “At Norfolk Museums, for example, we have a paid traineeship programme for people new to the sector or who want to make a career change. Don’t think that you have to do a degree to get your foot in the door, as there are plenty of other ways in.”

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Audiences, Purpose, and Personalization in Museums

By reflecting on their purpose and identifying how they can best serve their communities, museums can create better organizations for their staff and the audiences they serve.

As museums shift to a more hybrid world of in-person and online programming, the importance of purpose has become increasingly clear. By reflecting on their purpose and identifying how they can best serve their communities, museums can create better organizations for their staff and the audiences they serve.

But what is purpose, and how does it fit in with an organization’s mission and vision? Adam Rozan, audience engagement innovator, spoke on this topic in Gather’s recent convening . He defined purpose as a museum's "reason for being. It’s why your organization exists." This differs from mission, which Rozan describes as how an organization achieves its purpose, and vision which articulates what the organization will look like when those goals are accomplished. While defined separately, purpose, mission, and vision should be interconnected in guiding a museum’s strategic decisions and goals.

During the pandemic, many museums were faced with this question of purpose when their doors closed and they had to compete with all of the other virtual programming available online. "If you don't have your building, if you can't rely on the things that really made you special and unique...you were forced to do it online. [This] meant that you could push and test who you were and what you're doing and how you were serving," Rozan shared. Now, as museums offer multiple ways for audiences to interact with them, it’s more important than ever for organizations to identify why they exist and how they serve their communities.

Defining a purpose is no easy task. At a macro level, Rozan declared the following:

"Museums exist for the public. Full stop."

At an individual level, each museum and its various communities are unique. Rozan stressed the importance of listening to audiences and staff to help shape an organization’s specific purpose. From a community perspective, "you have these different groups that you have a relationship with, so how are you meeting their needs? And when we think about our audiences more than just on a singular level...are we taking the time to speak to our various audiences and to understand what they need from us and how we might make that connection?" By taking a more community-centered approach to defining purpose, museums can create programs and experiences that are more meaningful and relevant to each of their audiences.

In addition to listening to community needs, it is equally important for museums to engage their staff in the process of defining purpose. Staff members are often intimately familiar with the museum's operations and day-to-day activities. They can offer valuable insights into what is feasible and sustainable in terms of programming and outreach. As Rozan said, "we have to really think through: what is it we can do? what is it we can sustain and ensure that our staff have the breathing space around these projects to do them properly?" The hard work of defining purpose is worth it, however. As one convening attendee noted, "once you do it, you can look to that whenever you're making a decision."

Museums can continue to engage their communities in meaningful ways by utilizing the right tools and strategies. One of these tools is Gather software, which many museums are using to increase access to their onsite, online, and on-demand programming. By partnering with Gather, organizations deliver more personalized experiences that foster a deeper connection with their various audiences, allowing them to better serve their community and fulfill their purpose.

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What Makes a Museum Successful?

Museums must remain relevant to a contemporary audience while upholding a mission to preserve human culture for posterity. Daniel Weiss ’85, president of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, explains the challenges and opportunities that come with managing a cultural legacy.

• Dan Weiss President, Metropolitan Museum of Art

Recently, a number of museums noticed a surge of visitors, particularly of young adults—the demographic most prized by institutions anxious to replace their aging audiences. Were young people being pulled in by blockbuster exhibits or perhaps by evening events offering a chance to mingle surrounded by artwork? Well, no. The museums eventually determined that the new arrivals were Pokémon Go players in search of virtual characters hidden in the galleries.

Kathy Sharpless of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum was philosophical about the influx, telling Bloomberg that the Boston museum is “delighted to be included in the craze.” She added a caveat: “We hope that once inside the museum, visitors will focus on the beauty rather than the game. If the game helps them get here and then they want to relax and enjoy, everyone wins.”

Should an art museum’s goal be to simply get people through the door? What makes a museum successful?

At one time, the size and importance of the collection was the key consideration. Exhibiting the work was something of an afterthought. But conserving and building a collection is expensive and inevitably requires public support. While hiding away much of the art might be cost effective, it would defeat a key function—documenting and inspiring the ongoing endeavors of humanity.

Today, public engagement is a core function of museums, and a trio of metrics are imperfect surrogates for impact: the number of museum members, the marketability of exhibits, and overall attendance. But how to measure and use those numbers remains a matter of debate. Maxwell Anderson, the former director of several museums around the country, calls for a more considered approach in a 2004 essay for the Getty Leadership Institute.“Over the last generation,” he writes, “art museums have shifted their focus away from collection‐building and toward various kinds of attention to the public—without balancing these two imperatives and without a consensus on what constitutes best practices in the latter.”

On top of membership, exhibits, and attendance, some institutions have layered other performance indicators, including energy usage per square foot, the percentage of the collection on display, or the ratio of adult to child admissions, according to John Jacobsen’s in Measuring Museum Impact and Performance: Theory and Practice . While each might have some use, the data can serve to obscure the essential concern, Jacobsen writes: “The field still lacks an accepted way to measure impact.”

In part the challenge comes from not having a single bottom line as a measure of success. But that shouldn’t change, according to economists Bruno Frey and Stephan Meier, who write in a 2003 paper that “it is crucial to go beyond the market” to understand the economics of museums . “Museums create social values, for which they are not compensated in monetary terms,” they write. Think of what the Louvre does for the prestige of Paris or the Guggenheim Bilbao does for Bilbao. Iconic museums enrich the lives of locals and draw tourists. They offer educational opportunities through classes, guided tours, and the chance to simply wander and absorb the art. An additional yield, Frey and Meier assert, is the “bequest value” that comes from protecting the thread between past and future generations.

However “priceless” art museums may seem, the realities of running such an institution require putting dollar values on every aspect of collecting, protecting, and exhibiting the artistic history of humanity. Limited budgets create tensions around priorities and short-term versus long-term obligations. Daniel Weiss ’85, president of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, discussed with Yale Insights the challenges of effectively navigating a museum’s multiple, intersecting missions.

To Weiss, the Met’s collection remains the source of its worth and its top priority. “The Met is the repository of the cultural legacy of our civilization. We have 5,000 years’ worth of art; our first job is to protect it,” Weiss said. “Unlike many commercial entities, universities and art museums are perpetual institutions. We’re here for the duration. We have to change with the times but not so much so that we lose our way.”

The museum itself is nearly 150 years old, and has its own traditions, deeply entwined with the life of New York City, its donor class, and the art world. “Any plan for change or strategic vision has to be predicated on deep understanding of the DNA of the organization,” he said. “That’s a discussion that requires lots of voices and a lot of reflection because it isn’t as obvious as it may sound.”

In launching new initiatives and programs, and in its use of new technologies, the Met must find a balance between reaching new audiences and honoring its mission. “If no one is interested in our programs, then they are not meaningful programs,” he said. “On the other hand, if all we’re doing is pandering to the public, then we’re not really respecting our mission.”

But no new programs, formats, or technologies are off the table as long as the Met continues to protect, preserve, and collect the best art while making it available to scholars and the public, he said. “The rest of it is negotiable.”

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Tomiko Brown Nagin (clockwise from upper left), speaks with Sven Beckert, Christy Coleman, and Makeda Best about the evolving role of museums.

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Who is this museum for?

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Experts discuss how displays and artifacts reflect choices about whose story is told, and how and why

Who are museums for? Whose perspective do they reflect? As museum professionals and the public are becoming increasingly aware, every artifact or piece of art on display reflects a choice. Museum professions need to be more thoughtful and self-aware about those decisions going forward, said Christy S. Coleman, executive director of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation,

Giving the 2021 Seminar in Innovative Curatorial Practice, a partnership between the Harvard Museums of Science and Culture and the Harvard Art Museums, Coleman spoke on Wednesday about “The Intentional Museum,” addressing these issues and examining the implications of contemporary museum displays and their context.

Questions about audiences and points of view are being more openly discussed now, but they aren’t new, Coleman said. In fact, she said that such questions came to the fore in the mid-1990s during her first professional museum job at the Baltimore City Life Museum. Although the six-building complex purported to be about the life of the city and stood across the street from public housing, there was little interaction. In fact, she said, the museum actively worked to disperse Black children who stood outside with buckets, trying to earn money washing car windows.

“This was a museum about life in the history of the city of Baltimore, and these children were prohibited from being a part of that institution,” Coleman said. Realizing that, except for the security and housekeeping staff, she was the only person of color at the museum, Coleman saw an opportunity. “I began to give them tours,” she said. “When all was said and done, I had a group of about 15 children, age 12 to 15, who became junior volunteers. They were filing paperwork. They were doing interpretation in the living history. They were greeting guests and escorting them to the different buildings.”

Beyond building what has since become known as “community engagement,” Coleman discussed how museums can reach out to underserved populations. To start with, those who run the institutions must reconsider the narratives they have long presented, she said.

These narratives, she explained, are accepted as fact — as “history.” In reality, they rely on memory, which can be faulty, and are framed in the context of heritage with an interpretive idea at its core: “what that community wants to value and what it wants others to know about them.”

Coleman cited the widely accepted ideas that George Washington had wooden teeth and “never told a lie.”

“Those things are not forensically true,” but in context, they are understandable, she said: “The new nation was coming together and rallied around one person.” Add in the faultiness of memory — how “we may create or add details to fit a heritage narrative” ­— and we can begin to recognize how such flawed “history” has come to be accepted.

“So often we think we have an object that can shift people’s opinions, but what we’re up against is also heritage and memory.” Makeda Best

Once recognized, however, it is essential that such falsehoods — and the narrow viewpoint that created them — should be corrected. “History has never been for the dead. It has always been about the living,” Coleman said, sharing what she called her personal mantra. “Our extensive knowledge and increasing knowledge about the past is brought about because of the questions we are asking of ourselves. We are looking for grounding. We are looking for connection. We are still looking to belong.”

Before starting work with the foundation, Coleman was president and CEO of the American Civil War Museum and served as an adviser on the biopic “Harriet,” about the leader of the Underground Railroad, and the TV adaptation of “The Good Lord Bird,” James McBride’s award-winning novel about the abolitionist John Brown.

Following Coleman’s presentation, the seminar opened up to a discussion with Makeda Best, Richard L. Menschel Curator of Photography, and Sven Beckert, Laird Bell Professor of American History, moderated by Harvard Radcliffe Institute Dean Tomiko Brown-Nagin.

Prompted by Brown-Nagin, Coleman gave an example of how a museum can present objects in an enlarged and corrected context. “With curatorial practice, we tend to think of the maker and the owner of a thing, not the additional users of the thing,” said Coleman. To illustrate, she brought up Mary Elizabeth Bowser, a free Black woman who worked in the residence of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederacy, while spying for the Union.

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Her story provides a more compelling context than Davis’ for items such as the teacups and punch bowls in the American Civil War Museum, said Coleman. Bowser “cleaned Davis’ office. She set dinner tables. She touched virtually everything in that house, and as she was touching them she was gathering information and sending it out of that house virtually every day,” she said.

“The way we have collected artifacts and art have always favored the white narrative, outside of ethnic-specific museums, so we are at a deficit,” said Coleman. “Black and brown hands have touched virtually everything that white hands have made or been given credit for, I can guarantee you.”

“This rubric offers a way to understand what contested objects and stories mean to people,” noted Best. “So often we think we have an object that can shift people’s opinions, but what we’re up against is also heritage and memory.”

Despite the challenges, “It’s important to correct these narratives,” said Beckert. Such stories, he added, “tell us who we are as a people and where we come from and also help us understand the contemporary problems that we face.”

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