129 Making a Presentation probably take longer than you anticipate: maybe 50 per cent
longer.
The ultimate aim of rehearsal is to give you freedom in the
presentation itself. Once you have run through the presentation a
few times, you will be able to concentrate on the most important
element of the event; your relationship with the audience.
Under-rehearsed presenters spend too much time working out
what to say. Well-rehearsed presenters know what to say and can
improvise on it according to the demands of the moment.
Try to think of each presentation as brand new. After all, it’s
probably new for this particular audience. They haven’t heard
your stories or arguments before. They are going on this journey
for the first time. Change the material a little each time you
present. Think of a new story or a new example.
You must also rehearse with any equipment that you intend
to use. Nothing is more nerve-wracking than trying to present
with a projector or laptop you’ve never seen before. Rehearse also
to improve your use of the equipment:
• Talk without support. Don’t use the visuals as a crib. • Don’t talk to visuals. They can’t hear you. Avoid turning your back on the audience. Rehearsing: general guidelines • Rehearse in real time: don’t skip bits.
• Rehearse with a friend. Ask them what they think and
work with them to improve.
• Rehearse with your notes. Get into the habit of looking
up from them.
• Rehearse with the visual aids at least once.
• Rehearse in the venue itself if you can. If you can’t, try to
spend some time there, getting the feel of the room.
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