Dear Jacquelyn,

My new position requires me to give presentations. My goal is to present a professional and positive learning experience for my audience. I understand etiquette and protocol will play a vital role in my effort to effectively get my message across. Can you please offer some advice?

Dear Reader,

Mastering the art of presenting takes awareness and much practice.

It is the nuances, the little things one employs during both preparation and execution, which will most positively impact your audience. Executing a stellar presentation begins long before you say “Hello” at the podium.

Prepare and know your material. This can make or break your presentation. Be so well-prepared that cue cards and notes are unnecessary. Own your material.

Present your material as if it were the first time. Even if you have given this presentation previously, these people have not been in your audience and this is brand new to them. Be mentally prepared to make this your best presentation ever.

Keep in mind your presentation is largely visual. Be aware of the image you present. Dress appropriately and be mindful of your body language.

Your eyes are a key asset. Use your eyes to directly connect with the eyes in your audience. Start from the person at the farthest part of the room.

Your goal is to make each person feel as though you are speaking directly to him or her.

While the visual aspects for your presentation make the most impact, the second most important element is verbal, what the audience hears. Therefore, it is not as much what we say rather how we say it. Be aware of your voice, volume, tonal quality and inflections.

Each audience is different. Therefore, each presentation will be different. You need to completely customize and adapt your presentation to each audience. What remains a constant and is critical out of the gate is projecting energy and enthusiasm.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2021 Jacquelyn Youst