One of my very wise mentors once joked that there are only three types of business presentations: the first type is the presentation you have imagined and put together; the second type is the presentation you delivered before an audience; and finally, the third type of presentation is the presentation you deliver behind the wheel of your car on the way back to the office! Although this witticism may make us smile, it describes a reality that is very specific to communication. There are often differences between what you wanted to communicate and what your listeners heard and remembered. Would it not, however, be in our best interest to have these three presentations align more exactly? Here are three ideas to make sure the message you've composed is the one that's heard and understood.
- Assess your audience
Do some research to learn as much as you can about your audience. What is the level of experience of your listeners with this topic? What about their skill level or understanding of the topic of your presentation? In your opinion, will they be receptive or not to the message or recommendation you will present to them?
2. Follow your plan
Implement the communication plan and strategy you have developed. Is your pitch logical and easy to follow? Can your evidence be questioned? Is your recommendation a logical outcome of what you demonstrated during your presentation?
3. Hold your emotions in check
How confident are you in your preparation for this delivery? Could you make this presentation without the help of visual aids and keep your listeners engaged without deviating from your game plan? What is your level of mastery of the flow and logical sequence of your presentation? Can you recite the opening and closing remarks of your presentation without mistakes or hesitations? Have you prepared answers to the difficult questions you anticipated?