In Part !, I explained the need to prepare, to know what you want to accomplish with this audience you’ll be speaking to, and how important it is to know them and involve them. If you haven’t read Part 1 yet, you might want to check it our now. (Just scroll down to the post below.)

Open strong! That does not mean start with “Good morning!” Especially don’t go into the song and dance some presenters do, wanting the audience to give them a rousing “good morning.” It’s hackneyed and annoying. The audience has gathered to listen to you, and they want you to capture their interest immediately. They want you to get right into it. Do that by giving them an important fact or figure, or by saying something that lets them know you know who they are.

Speak to them, converse with them, but don’t read your speech to them. They want to know you. They aren’t interested in how well you write; they want to know you by the way you present: your personality, your voice, your take on the topic.

When you’re making a presentation, remember a presentation is not a lecture. That means instead of telling everything, you want to show, to demonstrate, and give examples. The more concrete you can make your information, the better you can illustrate it in ways that relate to the audience, the more receptive your audience will be.

Involve your audience. The days of lecturing to a group are gone. You can ask them questions, tell them stories, have them do something. The ways to involve them are many. The more you involve them, the better they’ll remember what you present.

Get a coach. A good coach can show you how to construct your presentation so you remember your points without notes. A good coach will show you how to improve your delivery it so your listeners pay attention–and are with you all the way. A good coach will dramatically improve your speaking, for not only one presentation but for future speeches.

Finally, practice, practice, practice. I have acted on stage,and even when I knew my part cold, I rehearsed again before going on. When I make a speech, no matter how well prepared I am, I stillI practice. Tiger Woods though a golf star, still gets coaching and practices. Resting on your laurels is a sure way to flop.

If you want to become a dynamic presenter, one who is stimulating and who delights your audience with good information, well presented, be sure to keep reading this blog for an opportunity to do just that!