How To Survive Your Show Biz Debut
Speaking before an audience is not as much fun as it used to be. That’s my conclusion based on observing and delivering presentations before a virtual crowd. The big difference today is mastering the experience of working with a online audience watching from their home offices.
There are lots of lessons to learn along the way. Here are seven of them. I’m sure you can add to the list:
- Create professional-looking slides. I’ve relied on having Microsoft convert my simple slides into engaging visuals.
- Give your audience access to a recording of your event as well as valuable handouts.
- Rehearse your presentation several times, especially a few minutes before going on stage. You never know when something’s gotten out of place.
- For smaller groups, greet members as they come online, if possible.
- Schedule a few question breaks during presentation as opposed to waiting for the close. And be sure every question gets answered.
- Time your presentation. Make sure you’ll cover all key points during time allowed.
- Don’t sound like you are reading directly from a text. Instead, let your slides function as a script.
Show business ability will be in demand. Get ready!