Presentation Etiquette & Tips for Speaking

1. Presentation Etiquette &Tips for Speaking

2. Preparation • Clearly Define the Speaking Roles of Each Team Member • Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse • But Do Not Try to Memorize • Makes your speech static • Inhibits you from connecting with your audience • Increases the number of errors that you will make • Do at Least One Complete Dry Run • Be serious, simulate the real presentation as best as possible

3. Day of the Presentation • Do not be late! Arrive early to set up whatever you need • When meeting anyone, a firm handshake projects confidence • Dress for success Business Casual Business Formal Men: suits or coordinating trousers and blazer, cotton long-sleeved shirts, leather shoes with matching belt, fashionable silk tie, dark suit and white shirt for special events Women: suits or coordinating skirts jackets or pants, tailored dresses, navy blazer, silk or cotton blouses, dress shoes with matching belt, silk scarves and jewelry, basic color panty hose • Men: separates (khaki slacks and navy blue sport coat is classic), silk ties (solids, stripes, small design), golf shirts with collars, pullovers/cardigans/sweaters, leather loafers in brown or black with matching belt, socks should match slacks • Women: separates (navy blue blazer, khakis, class blouse), casual dresses or pantsuits, blouses or polos, pullover/cardigan/sweaters, low leather pumps with match belt, hosiery with dresses and skirts or socks to match slacks, scarves or jewelry

4. While You Speak • Make Eye Contact with Audience • Avoid reading from note cards • Try to make eye contact 80-90% of time • Scan the audience continuously and try to make eye contact with everyone • Speak Loudly and Clearly • Do Your Best to Avoid “Umms” • It’s ok to pause and gather your thoughts!

5. Be Mindful of Non-Verbal Communication • Consciously Avoid all Nervous Movements • Examples: Clenching Hands Together, Fiddling with Clothes or Accessories, Rubbing Chin • Watch Your Posture • Stand Up Straight • Use simple, modest, and natural hand gestures to enhance your communication • Project Confidence and Authority

6. Nervous About Speaking? • Relax, take a deep breath • Remember that everyone at the presentation is there to support you and your learning • If you get nervous while speaking, glance briefly at your teammates • Project Confidence • Do not apologize for being nervous or stumbling • If appropriate, introduce yourself to some of the professionals who you will be presenting to before you begin • This may lessen the intimidation factor

7. Works Cited • University of Central Florida http://pegasus.cc.ucf.edu/~rbrokaw/reading.htm • Toastmasters International. http://www.toastmasters.org/MainMenuCategories/FreeResources/NeedHelpGivingaSpeech/TipsTechniques/10TipsforPublicSpeaking.aspx • http://www.speaking-tips.com/Articles/Hand-Gestures.aspx