Stay on Track: Remember What to Say
What is one of the worst things that can happen while delivering a presentation? Forgetting what to say! We’ve all been there. You’ll be going through your presentation, everything seems to be fine, then BAM! You have no idea what to say next. What do you do? You may start to ramble or begin using non-words like “um” or “ah.” You might even turn around and start reading your slides to the audience.
If you do any of the above, it is no doubt embarrassing for you, but more importantly it becomes difficult for your audience to pay attention. If you start behaving in a distracting way, chances are they’ll miss out on the information you’re trying to deliver.
To help ensure this never happens to you again, I’d like to introduce a new skill that will save the day. All you have to do is PAUSE. One of the best times to pause is at the end of a sentence. Remember to pause and breathe after every important sentence or when looking back to the slide. Pausing will help you remember your next thought. It indicates that you are considering the needs of your audience. Pausing allows the audience to keep up with you and helps you relax.
Make Every Presentation Great!
Sheri Jeavons
