- The one you planned to do
- The one you actually did
- The one you wished you did
- The one the audience perceived
You can never judge which one of these four that is the
best, because it differs from time to time and who you ask. This “theory” helps
me to understand that a presentation depends on your performance at that exact
moment. And, the more prepared you are, the better you will deliver.
Tip 1: START & END – Create a first impression that
lasts
“A presentation has a start, an end and something in
between.”
- Martin Gunnarsson
Your first two minutes in any presentation are the most
important. The audience will analyze your personality, your clothes, your
accent, your hair, how you walk, your slides—everything. They do so to decide
whether it’s worth the investment to listen to you or not. During these two
minutes, it’s difficult to digest detailed information. Instead, use this time
to build trust, let the audience get to know you and build a relationship with
them.
The START of your presentation should be something that is
easy to understand and something everyone can relate to. Preferably a story or
a topic that is unexpected so as to surprise the listener. This sends a signal
that you feel safe in this situation. You build trust. The listener will also
open up his/her senses to new influences as you do something unexpected and,
therefore, the brain will be more open to receive new information.
At the END of your presentation, you have to tie together
your presentation and messages. You have to clearly tell the audience what to
remember after the session.
