Top 10 Ways to Butcher Your Presentation and How to Avoid Them! Part 2
By Arvee Robinson
4. Pacing while you speak. Walking back and forth is a BIG distraction to your audience. Not only will their necks hurt after the game of Ping-Pong that you just put them through, but you'll have them anxiously wondering "Is this ever going to stop!?" Pacing keeps the audience from hearing what you're saying. Movement is good; it keeps a presentation lively and interesting. However, it's important to move with a purpose instead of meandering.
5. Swaying in the wind. Like pacing, swaying in front of an audience is a HUGE no-no. Not only is it a distraction, it may even make your audience seasick. The best way to keep from swaying is to stand in the rooted position, which is when both feet are shoulder-length apart. Standing in this position will create a look of confidence and eliminate the temptation to sway.
6. Leaning on the lectern. A surefire way to lose your audience's confidence is to lean on the lectern. Not only does this casual style show a lack of respect to both the audience and the lectern, it also gives the appearance of a sloppy speaker. Treat the lectern as you would your child. Never lean on it, hit it, or leave it unattended.
7. Speaking in a monotone voice. Speaking in a one-dimensional, monotone voice is boring, boring, boring. If you deliver your presentation using only one vocal pitch and rate, you'll surely put your audience to sleep. People can't grasp your message if they're snoring. Therefore, it's important to create excitement and keep interest by using a variety of vocal tones, pitches, and rates when you speak.
Fourthly, keep your movement to a minimun, when you are talking or delivering a speech.
ReplyDeleteOtherwise, your swaying or amplified movement will definately destract the audience and make them lose concentraction.
Fifth, stand upright and plant your feet firmly on the ground. Look the audience straight in the eye and only make purposeful and appropriate gestures. And don't sway your body!
Six, don't lean on the lectern. Adjust the microphone to your height and start your delivery straight away. Don't tap or say testing, testing. This will make you unprofessional.
Lastly, don't speak in monotone. Demostrate your vocal variety.