Five Top Rules to Present like a Pro
Posted on Thu, Aug 26, 2010
by Lyudmila Bloch, Business Etiquette Expert
Business seminars of all kinds are a huge business. Whether it’s a time-management workshop, or business etiquette seminar for bankers – small and big companies alike are looking for experts in just about every field: team building, creative problem-solving, body language, business dining etiquette, customer service, corporate protocol, workplace etiquette, leadership skills, communication skills, email etiquette, etc.
Every year, thousands of corporate executives, bankers, pharmaceutical reps, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and sales executives reach out to business coaches, trainers, presenters, and speakers in order to be enlightened, motivated, and coached on how to become a superstar in their respective fields. Having gone through dramatic downsizing over the past two years, many companies are not looking to hire new employees – they are looking to energize and develop their current workforce.
Do you have what it takes to be a seminar pro in your field?
Obviously, this is not an appropriate field for shy or boring people. If you plan to present your own programs, you must be able to demonstrate not only in-depth subject-knowledge backed by meticulous planning, but also be something of a modern-day psychic who can determine what type of presentation would work best for your client.
One of the key components of the successful business seminar (Rule #1) is to keep your audience engaged and entertained with a great anecdote or humorous story. This doesn’t mean that you need to be a professional comic or Toastmaster but you do need to have a great deal of energy, enthusiasm, and passion for your subject.
Rule #2--You need to create a visually pleasing product. For example, if you are presenting your content in PP, use your slides as a guiding tool rather than a content-source. Tell a compelling story and use plenty of real-life examples so that your audience can relate to what you are telling them.
Rule #3--Plan ahead, check your “must do” list and have a Plan B on the ready if everything else fails. For example, if you have an unexpected technical malfunction and can’t see your slides, make sure that you have your 3x5 cards to help you deliver your ideas with confidence.
Rule #4--Prior to your big presentation--practice, practice, practice! Invite your colleague, friend, or your spouse to sit through your simulated business workshop and videotape, if possible. The video will point out your weaknesses and provide timely feedback.
Rule #5–Study and use your favorite celebrity presenters (for example, Anthony Robbins, Tonya Reiman, etc.), as models. Try to incorporate some of their techniques into your own routine--body language, gestures, and stories. After all said and done, have a great time!