November 2001 - Delivering Powerful Presentations

By Anne Mazurowski (3M)

Halloween came early on October 24, when Zeeda Magnuson, Professional Development Director at the Volunteer Resource Center, frightened the audience with the following fact. People remember 7% of the content of a presentation, but they remember 93% of how you project yourself! The 25 CVC members in attendance garnered valuable advice on organizing a speech, preparing for off-the-cuff versus planned presentations, and delivery techniques. Be sure to download the great handouts [44k Word document].

More people are afraid of public speaking than they are of dying. An audience member reminded us that we only die once! Zeeda included tips on overcoming stage fright that go far beyond the worn out adage "just picture the audience in their undergarments."

Zeeda also had terrific advice for volunteer program managers. She wrote a list of 15 questions so we can be prepared to talk about our volunteer programs without notice. Please refer to page five of the handouts.

For your next speech, try these techniques:

• Make an Impression - Tell a story that will grab the audience.
• Repeat, Repeat - Due to information overload, it takes hearing something 7 to 12 times before we consider taking action.
• Draw a Sign - Let people know when they should really be listening, for example, say "this is the main point."
• Draw a Picture - Use metaphors, visuals.
• Short and Sweet - Can you tell the main message in 30 seconds? Start writing your remarks with the ending - a critical phrase - then flush out the details.
• The Narrative - Tell a personal anecdote.
• Rehearsal - Use a personal coach to help you. Be yourself.
• Relaxation - Try breathing techniques - or whatever works for you.

In a small group exercise on delivery, we learned how to effectively use:

• The Eyes - Make sure you have eye contact with your audience. Your eyes should float, land on a person for five seconds, then smile and move on.
• The Voice - Project and vary your voice. Don"t use a monotone and slow down!
• Gestures - Use carefully. They can show enthusiasm for your topic or they can be distracting.
• Expression - You"re on stage! Project to the back of the room. Be more overt with your expressions.
• Stance - You want to portray confidence and excitement about your topic.
• The Pause - Pause just before driving home a point. It creates drama.

Want to get serious about improving your delivery? Ask a colleague who will be open and honest with you to coach you. Practice your presentation with them and then have them in the audience to provide feedback. Return the favor.

Thank you to Gelina Haus and Wells Fargo for hosting this very useful training.

Knock their socks off in your next presentation!

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