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Effective Presentations

Preparation

People often become frightened when they prepare to deliver training. Rather than thinking in terms of fear, effective trainers/presenters think in terms of opportunity. Delivery is an opportunity to “strut your stuff.”

Preparation is the best defense against seemingly unmanageable fear. With careful preparation, a trainer can reduce and control nervousness. The most essential step in training/presentation delivery is the first one … preparation:

• Gain an understanding of the learning objectives
  
• Learn the material
  
• Practice the delivery
  
• Prepare questions to stimulate learning
  

Starting and Ending on Time

The second most essential step in training/presentation delivery is respecting both yourself and your audience by starting and ending on time:

• Use effective openings
  
• Set clear expectations for time
  
• Structure and close your presentation effectively
  

Presentation Behavior

Finally, trainers need to be aware of themselves as they stand in front of a group of people. Training partners can help each other improve their professionalism and “smoothness” by reviewing the following behaviors with each other after the training is completed:

• Verbal communication
  
• Use of voice
  
• Appearance
  
• Mannerisms
  
• Body language