Public Speaking for Technical Professionals

Helpful Hints for Making Presentations

Making good presentations is essential for the career development of a technical profession. In fact, General Electric makes a special point to insure that all new hires are properly trained in this area. Here are some helpful hints on making presentations:
1) Determine who your audience will be
2) Direct your presentation to that level of understanding
3) Decide what the main points of the presentation should be
4) "Tell a story" that leads the audience to the main points
5) The opening 1-2 minutes is critical to check the attention of the audience
6) BE ENTHUSIASTIC or at the very least be upbeat
7) Proofread your slides and have someone else proof them as well
8) Practice, practice, practice and then practice again
9) When practicing, visualize the audience and pretend to actual give the presentation
10) If possible, do a "practice run" in front of peers for constructive feedback
11) When speaking - use a good volume and pace, avoid monotone, be careful about breath control
12) Make meaningful eye contact
13) Use hand gestures when appropriate
14) Leave your hands free - do not play with a pen or pointer when speaking
15) Come early to make sure all equipment is working properly

For more information, the following books are recommended: