When you have a presentation to give, do you spend more time
preparing the content, or practicing your delivery in front of a mirror? The
impact of communication can be measured in the following way: seven per cent is
determined by content, 55 per cent by body language, and 38 per cent by your
voice. These are the findings of eminent educational psychologist Albert
Mehrabian.
Content is crucial, of course, but remember that
presentation techniques—how you communicate words—accounts for 93 per cent of
the impression you make. My top tip is: once you have prepared a presentation,
spend time on how you present—your voice and body language will count. In
addition, consider the following...
1. Research your audience. Study a brand and understand its
values. What are people expecting from you?
2. Send out three messages. Begin powerfully, deliver the
three key points, and then finish your speech memorably.
3. Body language. Smile, make eye contact and use gestures.
Good posture conveys a sense of personal power and it communicates confidence.
4. Voice counts for 38 per cent of impact. Variation of
pitch adds color to a voice. Pace your delivery-move quickly through
unimportant words and phrases and slow down vital ones.
5. First impressions count. Clothing has a language and is a
key part of your message. It takes seven seconds to make a first impression.
What you wear says something about you. Your introduction is paramount.
6. Connect with your audience. People respond positively
when you are authentic, so be yourself. There is a difference between
impressing and connecting.
