Prior to any public speaking event, such as a corporate address or keynote, there are a few important things you should do to ensure your presentation goes smoothly.
1. Get to the venue early
Here is some advice that should go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway … please, please, please arrive early!
By early I mean ensure you are in the vicinity of the venue where you are presenting at least one hour before your hit time. You need not be in the actual room where you are speaking but settle your nerves by waiting in a café or quiet area nearby. Running late (due to traffic, or a wardrobe malfunction) is the worst feeling.
You should leave yourself at least 45 minutes to scope out the room and do these 3 things specifically …
2. Meet the AV team
After you have said hi to the event organisers, please introduce yourself to the audio visual team (the AV technicians) early on. That way you can make sure that if you are using slides they have been uploaded in the right order, and you can select a microphone (lapel or hand held). Essentially this will help you sort out any tech issues before you start presenting.
3. Familiarise yourself with the presenting area
If there is a stage and there are stairs, walk up them. Go and stand at the lectern, and look out at the room where the audience will be seated. Physically and mentally prepare for what it will feel like when you are delivering your presentation for real. And by walking up and down any stairs you reduce the chance of tripping.
4. Do a mic check
Testing, testing 1,2,3!
Make sure you test your microphone with the AV team. Because any audio issues are going to mar what could otherwise be a fantastic presentation.
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