Free Article:
Presentation Power
(part 2)
by Dr. Tony Alessandra
Here's
how:
Rehearse
aloud. Do this in order to check your timing (you
read out loud slower than you read in your mind),
and to make sure your presentation flows and sounds
the way you want it to. Rehearse at least four
or five times. You should feel comfortable explaining
all of your ideas. Don't try to memorize your speech,
however, or you may end up sounding stale, as if you
are reciting or reading.
Rehearse
in the actual location of the presentation, if possible.
It is
better to work out the technicalities of visual aids,
outlets and positioning
during a rehearsal as opposed to the day of your presentation.
Time
yourself during rehearsal. During your last few
rehearsals, time yourself so that you can make sure
you stay within the amount of time allotted for your
presentation.
Once
you have rehearsed your presentation and feel comfortable
with the material, visualize yourself presenting it
successfully. While you are comfortably seated,
close your eyes and visualize your entire presentation.
See the room and imagine yourself walking to the front
of the room and being greeted by a warm round of applause.
See the
audience and feel them anxiously awaiting your message.
Hear yourself begin. Your voice sounds confident and
strong. Mentally go through your entire presentation.
See the audience rise and give you a standing ovation
when you finish.
Feel your
pleasure as people come up after the presentation
to tell you how well you did and how important the
message was to them. Bask in your success. Repeat
this exercise until you feel confident and well prepared.
Your ability
to speak in front of groups is one of the most important
professional skills you can develop. To truly develop
the skill, however, you have to practice it in front
of a real, live audience.
Force yourself
to find opportunities to speak. Volunteer at your
professional organizations, civic clubs, or church.
You might even consider joining Toastmasters -- it
offers you a weekly speaking experience in a supportive,
educational environment. Good Luck! 
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