What are the best tools and resources to prepare and practice your informative presentation?

One key element that makes any presentation stand out is the storytelling. With the appropriate story flow, and facts intertwined with content in a concise way, you will captivate everyone's engagement and attention throughout your presentation. Every presentation starts with the proper story before hitting PowerPoint of Keynote.

I've been using ChatGPT to structure some of the subjects I'm presenting during webinars. Even if we are experts in a subject, we often miss a point that could be important for our audience, and ChatGPT can be helpful as it will check if everything that should be part of your presentation is being covered. While you are outlining your presentation, check mentally if that sequence makes sense for a presentation, and if all the dots are connected.

A well-crafted introduction will set the tone for your entire presentation and when well written, will capture your audience's attention. When thoughtfully prepared it can the stage for a successful presentation. Starting with a compelling story is a powerful way to connect with your audience and make your presentation more memorable. Sharing a business success story where you helped a client overcome a large obstacle or perhaps a personal anecdote of overcoming adversity can help to create an emotional connection with your audience. Choosing an approach that is appropriate for your audience and that supports the key message you want to convey will set the stage for a successful presentation.

In order to have a successful presentation, it is also extremely important shape your introduction to your target audience. If you do not grab your listener's attention at the beginning, you may not regain it. Additionally, if you do not hit specific metric points or answer certain questions, the listener may zone out. When I prepare my introduction I like to think of it as a one-minute drill - what do I need to say for someone to understand my idea? What will gain their attention? Why is this unique or important? What question do I need to answer for my audience to remain interested? Then I utilize the remainder of the presentation to add in details and additional information knowing they are listening.

Recording yourself speak can sometimes seem challenging. There's something that can create anxiety as soon as you hit that record button. But don't worry, with practice that goes away. Here are some tips to help: 1. Start practicing in the mirror. It can help you better notice some speech patterns or verbal ticks that you might have that you can correct afterwards. 2. Ask someone to listen to your presentation and provide feedback. 3. Go in early to the physical location where you will deliver the presentation from (even if it's just in front of your computer) or visualize yourself in that space. It will help calm the nerves on the day of. 4. Practice your presentation in a VR space (yes, there are services that provide that option).

When reviewing a recording of your presentation, watch it twice. The first time watch yourself and how you interact with the slides. The second time watch with your eyes closed. This allows you to hear any filler words or words you use as a crutch. You will be surprised what you hear when you watch with your eyes closed.

When writing the introduction it is very important you review it over and over. Especially after preparing the full presentation you would often find you can write a better introduction. I agree that starting with a compelling story or a thought provoking question is an interesting way to present. However, asking a question depends on the audience as well, cause sometimes if you get the question wrong or if you direct it to an audience member and they ignore or do not answer the presenter could get distracted at the start itself. It's always best to practice with someone.