Presentation Soft Skills 1/16/2018 Academic Presentation Making

Tips for giving good presentations Schedule Tips for giving good presentations How to address the audience!

Show your Passion Let the enthusiasm come out Content, visuals, professionalism important Heartfelt belief in the topic Connect with audience in honest and excited way Passion and confidence

Start Strong First 2-3 Minutes are important Audience wants to like you Have 2-3 minutes to convince them Must engage them Do not spend too much time on background info, professional history, etc.

Keep it Short Attention span is greatest in beginning and when saying something like “in conclusion” Better to have them want more than give them too much

Move Away from the Podium In front, around, etc. Remove physical barriers Build rapport and respect If possible, use remote control device

Use the B Key Screen goes blank Audience can focus on you for a minute

Eye Contact Look at individuals, not scan the group Smile Unless have to reference something on slide, don’t turn back to audience

Keep the lights on Balance between seeing you and seeing the screen Balance the lighting E.g. TV screen

Slow Down Pause for emphasis

Other Tips Don’t plan gestures “That’s a good question” Don’t Apologize