Engaging Your Audience: Presentations in the 21st Century
Angela S. Williamson
Adjunct Professor & Doctoral Candidate, Capella University
Can A Powerful Presentation Change Your Life?
YES!
Questions to Ponder…..
• Why is public speaking different in the 21st Century?
• What do I need to know about these changes?
Presentation Takeaway #1Set A Goal!
• Transition to “virtual” is not a “natural” one for most presenters
• Operating technology is not the only issue
• There is a learning curve
Presentation Takeaway #2Hook Them In & Don’t Let Go!
• Communication rock stars will engage, motivate, and even inspire traditional & virtual audiences
• Your opening always engages your audience in the topic & establishes goodwill
Presentation Takeaway #3Give Them Something To Chew On!
• Breakdown your speech into the major points you want to make
• Then build your content around them with the aim of finishing on your key point
• Vocal variety is your friend!
Presentation Takeaway #4Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!
• If you’re using PowerPoint aim for 2-3 slides per key point
• Add a summary slide at the end to re-iterate the points you have made
• PowerPoint or Prezi?
Presentation Takeaway #4Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!
• Don’t clutter the slide
• Rehearse it to yourself
• Rehearse it in front of others
• Appearance does matter!
Presentation Takeaway #5Leave Them Wanting More!
• Make the conclusion memorable
• Challenge your audience to respond
• Have a strong call to action!
A Good Contact Slide Goes A Long Way!
Questions?Don’t Be Shy!
Let’s Recap!
1. Set A Goal!
2. Hook Them In & Don’t Let Go!
3. Give Them Something To Chew On!
4. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!
5. Leave Them Wanting More!
Practice, Practice, Practice!
It’s Your Turn!
