6 Tips to Help You Prep for a Presentation

6 MUST HAVE tips to help you prep for your next presentation or public speaking event.

Some people have fears of heights, snakes, or bugs, and speaking in public is BIG on most lists!

Although I grew up shy and introverted (I know, hard to believe, right?) when I stand up in front of an audience to give a speech… my nerves are STILL there but they’re now meshed with an overwhelming feeling of excitement! I love looking out into the audience and seeing people nod their heads when they agree with me or hearing them laugh out loud when I say something funny. (With my family — it’s takes much more to get a laugh than it does with an audience!)

This photo was taken last year when I spoke at the @TodaysDietitianSymposium about being an influencer with credibility and confidence. Although this year’s talk for Today’s Dietitian was virtual because of the COVID-19 quarantine, I didn’t have to worry about buying a new dress doing my hair or putting on makeup — but preparing for my presentation was the same. In fact, it was more stressful than ever because for the first time ever, I co-presented with my husband! Yes, we’ve been married for 36 years and this was a new experience for both of us to explore together!

Hubby is an attorney that specializes in contract negotiations and he has been reviewing my contracts since we met. He is the only attorney I know who understands every aspect of the profession of nutrition and dietetics. I try to go through most of my contracts first…but I always wind up having a few tough questions that I save for him.

Although he had his own strategy for presentation prep, here are some behind-the-scenes tips on how I prepare for a speech…

I write a rough draft of my speech EXACTLY as I would say it (nevermind about grammar, spelling, or anything you’d think about if you were writing an article)
I say it out loud and refine as need be
I time it
I practice over and over again
And I usually make changes up till the last minute (including improvising during the talk!)
And even if it’s virtual — I do kind of dress to play the part

Do you get the jitters when you have to get up in front of a group or in front of a camera?

I’d be happy to help you feel CALM + CONFIDENT. Ask me how to make that happen below in the comments or get in touch by sending a message on the contact page. I look forward to connecting with you!