I have been doing workshops and masterclass webinars lately. Yet, no matter how prepared I think I am I still get a bit nervous before I start one. It occurred to me that often you can come into a presentation and not know how to prepare properly. So, I want to discuss how to prepare for your presentation.
How To Prepare
I think the number one thing you must have ready before doing your presentation is your slides (if you use them). Go through them over and over again. If you can afford it have someone review them for you.
Know Your Why & Who
You must know why you are doing a presentation webinar. There are numerous reasons to do them but why are you doing them? I am doing them to pick up more in my correct audience. For years I did digital marketing and had a great following but now that following does not always translate to my current audience needs.
Which brings me to who. Who are you presenting to? You have to know the audience you want to present to in the end. Are you reaching them? Create a presentation that speaks to them in their language.
If you are unclear in your audience download my Fearless Storyboard in the Free Offers page.
“After defining the objective of your presentation, determine how much information you can present in the amount of time allowed. Also, use your knowledge about the audience to prepare a presentation with the right level of detail. You don’t want to plan a presentation that is too basic or too advanced.
The body of the presentation is where you present your ideas. To present your ideas convincingly, you will need to illustrate and support them. Strategies to help you do this include the following:
- Present data and facts
- Read quotes from experts
- Relate personal experiences
- Provide vivid descriptions
And remember, as you plan the body of your presentation it’s important to provide variety. Listeners may quickly become bored by lots of facts or they may tire of hearing story after story.”
How Do I Even Begin
The best course of action is to begin by creating an outline for the course, workshop or webinar you are going to do. An outline will help you start and then give you ideas on the content to put on each slide.
Your outline will also help you know approximately how many slides will need. Each numbered and alphabetically ordered in your outline will usually represent one slide.
In other words, if you have an outline that has 10 main points but has 5 subpoints for each one you can count on at least 60 slides. I counted each of the 10 plus 5 (subpoints) x 10 (main points) in the presentation. When you add both the 10 main points and the 50 subpoints it equals 60 slides.
I’ve prepared a quick video on this topic as well. So if you prefer to watch please click below.
Preparing For Your Presentation YouTube Video
First Slide & Branded Template
I recommend simply starting at the beginning of your outline. Then create your first introduction slide to your overall topic. Then use your outline to help you fill in the rest. I highly recommend creating a branded PowerPoint template or you can create one in Canva as well for yourself.
Check Your Automation In Your Presentation
If you have put an automation in your slides then you should go through them to make sure they all work properly. I have been in presentations when I thought I was completely ready only to have no automation work and the slides are showing too much material on it.
I tend to write out all my thoughts regarding the topic I present. If I keep notes on it I get distracted and cannot focus on the presentations or the questions that may come in. So, I have to be very careful when I set up the slides that add automation to present one line or idea at a time so I do not overwhelm the audience.
My advice to you would be to go through the slides numerous times or have someone proof them for you. A good VA (virtual assistant), proofreader, or tech person can help in this area.
Have A Clear Throat Or Voice
On the day of the presentation, it is important that you have a clear throat or voice. If you need to drink water with a little lemon it. Some people love drinking a cup of hot tea. Personally, I like my coffee, not for my voice but for clarity and energy <wink>.
Calendar
Does your calendar block enough time before and after your presentation? As much as you prepare you never know if you will run into tech issues, longer questions, or anything else that could keep you in the presentation longer.
I always block out at least an hour before and an hour after to reset my mindset. I also have huge issues with my energy thanks to my autoimmune diseases (MS & Lupus+). Often, I need to rest a little after putting so much energy into the presentation.
Tip:
I also block out time on the calendar for preparing my slides. I will block out a couple of hours here and there leading up to the presentation. This allows me the time to put into and not just my leftover time that isn’t booked and full.
Mindset Time For Reflections
Immediately prior to my presentation, I try to reflect on the slides I’ve done. I also pray as I am a Christian, so I ask God for peace and to speak through me. I ask HIm to give me a calm heart and that those present will be blessed and learn something new to have a few great takeaways.
This helps me to calm my spirit and mind. So, if you pray that is best but if not then you could meditate, go over the presentation again, and simply center yourself and take a few deep cleansing breaths.
You will be surprised if you have not tried these tactics, they can really help your mindset going into your event.
Appearance Check
Immediately before your event, you will want to check your appearance, of course. Make sure your hair is the way you like it and any makeup routine you have is done. For me, I don’t wear much makeup anymore so a little lip cover and mascara is about all I do today.
The only reason I bring this up is because if you can see yourself and you feel something does not look right you will be so distracted and may not have a good presentation. So, double-check yourself in a mirror before going on to present.
Last Minute Preparation
The things I consider last-minute preparation are:
- My Chair’s Position – is it in the place I like it to be? Is it adjusted properly or any pillows in place?
- Water or Drinks – I like to have a drink next to me so when my voice or throat gets tired or dry I can take a quick drink.
- Fan – I keep a little fan on my desk that plugs into the USB. I keep it set on low and only turn it on it when needed. If I did not have it however I could end sweating and look the part as well. Therefore it is handy to have nearby.
- Lighting – Make sure your lighting is good and presents you properly.
- Mic – I am fortunate that my laptop (Samsung) mic is very good and I do not need another one.
- Your Internet Connection – check to be sure your internet connection is strong. The last thing you want is to be disconnected from the audience you hope to help.
Lastly
These should get you started in the right direction. If, however, you need a little help I am always available. Set up a Mini-Session (20 Minutes) with me and I can help you through whatever you are experiencing as an online service entrepreneur. Not to mention free offers – take a look at the menu.
Until Next Time Continue In Your Success!
