Careers in
FCHD
FCHD 2000
Presentation Skills
Dilbert:
You may be asked to give
a presentation
• Presenting is more than just reading a paper
• How you present is as important as what you
present
• Don’t try to cover too much
• Focus on information that is most important
to you and that will be of most interest to
your audience
Organize Thoughts
• Start with an outline
• Write out every word
• Develop good transitions
Use a Strong Opening
• Why should the audience
listen to you?
oBe creative
oUse a grabber, quote, short story
oCatch you audience’s attention
Use Simple Language
• Define unfamiliar terms
• Keep the audience on track
Finish with a Bang
• Find one or two sentences
that sum up the importance
of your presentation
Time Yourself
• Know how long you have
• Do not wait until the last
minute to time your
presentation
Practice, Practice, Practice
• The more you practice, the more
comfortable you will be
• Practice in front of a mirror
• Record yourself and listen to it
critically
• Practice in front of a friend (or two)
and ask for their feedback.
• Make it better and practice again.
Pauses
• Bring audible structure to your
presentation
• Emphasize important information
• Make transitions obvious
• Give the audience time to catch up
between points
• Don’t use a pause to read your notes
• Avoid using filler words
o Um, like, you know…
Create Effective Notes
• Do not write out your entire talk
on note cards
• Use outline; brief reminders,
• Do not read notes
• Do not use bright colored note
cards
• Do not wave your note cards
around while you speak
Tips
• Be excited
• Speak with confidence
• Make eye contact
Additional Tips
• Be conscious of posture
• Be present
• Don’t hide
• Don’t be afraid to be
yourself
Additional Tips
• Be early
• Go to the restroom to check
appearance and ensure you are
ready to present
• Get comfortable with the room
and equipment
• Get rest the night before
• Breathe
Dress
• Always dress at least one step
above your audience
• For a job presentation:
o Dress as you would for a job interview
• Minimum dress for presentations:
o Men - button-up shirt, dress slacks, dress shoes
o Women - button-up shirt, blouse, or nice sweater, dress
slacks, dress shoes
Questions?