As a leader or manager, you are going to give a presentation to a meeting, team, suppliers, customers and even maybe the general public at some point.
For many presenting is a real challenge. In fact some claim that presenting is the thing people fear most. Interestingly it is also claimed that death is number 6 on the things people fear most.
So when you are getting ready to deliver a presentation, how can you get in the zone and deliver at your best time and time again? The truth is it will vary from person to person but here are a few options to consider.
- Take a Brisk Walk
Now this might not work for everyone but what I have found that taking a brisk walk is a great way of getting in the zone. If possible give it a try.
- Do Some Tongue Twisters
It is really easy to get tongue tied in a presentation. Using tongue twisters can be a great way of reducing the risk of getting tongue tied. Basically you repeat a phrase over and over, getting faster each time. Two of my favourites are ‘Peter Piper Picked a Peck of Pickled Pepper’ and ‘She Sells Sea Shells on the Sea Shore’.
- Deep Breathing
Taking a really deep breath in and exhaling slowly can slow down your heart rate and calm you down. This is really helpful if you know that you have a tendency to gallop through your presentation.
- Visualisation
Many people mentally go through and visualise themselves giving a great presentation. This is very common in sports but can be applied just as well to presentation preparation.
The truth is there is no right or wrong way to prepare for delivering a presentation and the key is to find what works best for you.
Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements helps professional people become great leaders and managers. Sign up for his free audio e-course, Leadership Success, at www.goalsandachievements.co.uk
