PRESENTATION SKILLS

2 LEARNING OBJECTIVES Know how to present your case to Elected Officials effectively Know how to present your case to the Public effectively. Feel Comfortable In Front of Audiences – No Matter What the Situation

“ I read a thing that actually says that speaking in front of a crowd is considered the number one fear of the average person. I found that amazing – number two was death! That means to the average person if you have to be at a funeral, you would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy.” Jerry Seinfeld

Why Do Presentations ? They’re Effective They’re Faster and Easier -- for the Receiver They Give a Human Face to an Issue They Allows Two-Way Communications It’s What Leaders Do It’s What Helps Others See You as the Leader You Are

Structure Introduce Yourself and Say Thank You Give 1-3 Sentences for History and Orientation Sneak in a “Teaser” or “Interest Point” Then State the Purpose in 1 Sentence List the Key Points to Explain: 1, 2, 3. (or so) Present the Key Points – Equal Time Tell at Least 1 Story Say “In summary” and repeat 1, 2, 3. State What Action is Needed Ask for Questions Ask for the Action

… but if Only 2 Minutes Introduce Yourself Give 1 Sentence That Explains What Brought this Issue To Us Tonight State What Action you Need or Recommend List 3 Reasons Why Pick One Reason to Expand on Tell One Story Say “So as I mentioned, we recommend ….” Ask For Questions Ask for the Action.

Tips: People prefer being asked rather than told Listen, and adopt a “listening posture” Low-key and accommodating. A story helps. Relate to the tangible. Present facts and provide options. Be Incomplete. You will never have time to explain it all. Find the key points.

Visuals Visuals must connect with audience Pictures are good Lettering size important Watch for too many words Don’t use visuals unless necessary

Technology Assume there will be a breakdown – have a backup plan Know the room and audience Know the equipment Practice Get training on color, size, layout

Council Memos Simple -- One or two pages Provide Maps or Graphics if helpful. Have someone read them Avoid tech terms, jargon, acronyms (TLA) Avoid Emotional words Avoid interpreting the public interest Anticipate readers questions Make the recommendation

Improving your Skills Practice – Just Do It. Involvement in Organizations Toastmasters Class – Community College, etc TED Talks

PRESENTATION EXERCISE S ituation P roposal R eason for it A ction you’ll take if approved Should grab their attention State clearly Top 2 or 3 You do the work, don’t make them have to do more than approve

EXERCISE Pick a topic related to the Public Works field that you are passionate about Develop a 2 minute presentation on the subject PRESENT