This document provides 10 tips for facing a crowd from public speaking expert Amnon Carmel. The tips include knowing the material well without reading slides verbatim, managing nerves by preparing and practicing, being prepared with all presentation materials and facilities in order, focusing attention on the presenter by making eye contact and standing when addressing more than 3-4 people, using body language and voice effectively, considering the audience's comfort and understanding of the topic, remaining flexible and creative, and enjoying presenting with a smile. The overall message is that preparation, practice, audience awareness, and a positive attitude are key to effective public speaking.
2. About Me Amnon Carmel Facing crowds since 1991 Works in IT Researcher of futurism and Philosophy of Technology M.Sc. – T.A. University www.AmnonCarmel.com 200 articles 1.5 million hits
3. About Me Amnon Carmel Facing crowds since 1991 Works in IT Researcher of futurism and Philosophy of Technology M.Sc. – T.A. University www.AmnonCarmel.com 200 articles 1.5 million hits
4. Who Cares? Almost everyone! Why? Conferences Trainings Lectures Meetings Sales / Pre-sales Client / account mgt. And many more... Amnon Carmel
6. 1. Know Your Stuff Know the material Don’t read every word from slides Know your limits Be prepared for tough questions Listen carefully when asked Practice makes perfect
7. 2. No Fear! (And No Worries) You are here for a reason Don’t stress Prepare water Do a dry-run with family / friends Tough questions: Listen Analyse Ask for clarification “I think that...” “I am not sure but I’ll find out”
8. 3. Be Prepared Verify all facilities are ready Dress comfortable yet elegant Arrive early Test projector, volume, air-condition etc. Business cards Don’t forget : Who are you and why are you here?
9. 4. Face the Crowd Focus the attention on you Stand up (If over 3-4 people) Speak up! Look them in the eyes Look at slides on laptop or print copies Do not face the wall Practice really does make perfect
10. 5. Accessories Laser pointers Never use audio effects! EVER!! Don’t trust networks Wireless mouse Use mouse wheel PPT keyboard shortcuts
11. 6. Body Language Move around Use eye contact Talk with your hands Be mindful of your body Do not: Put hands in pockets Cross hands Play / move neurotically
12. 7. Use Your Voice Listen to yourself Speak loudly Match speech pace Change tone to emphasise and assist Be clear If using a mic: Only if you must Test well before start of presentation Be mindful of mic sensitivity
13. 8. Consider The Audience They are people too! Make sure they are comfortable Frequent breaks Ask questions “Feel the crowd” Be patient! Remember that they are not familiar with the material
14. 9. Flexibility and Creativity Use imagination and creativity Anecdotes and relevant examples Use some humour (with care!) Be flexible with topics Be strict on times
15. 10. Smile and Have Fun! A smile goes a long way If you enjoy talking the crowd will enjoy listening Embrace the thrill Find creativity in what you do (Always true!)