Do’s and Don’ts of Oral Presentations This list is a sample of some of the visual, vocal, and verbal aspects of oral presentations. Research has shown that an effective presentation is primarily made up of vocal (38%) and visual elements (55%), while the verbal content comprises 7%. Use these suggestions to ensure an effective oral presentation. VOCAL (how you say it) Do project your voice Do use a variety of rates of speech Do use pauses after a key point for emphasis Do use a variety of pitch levels Do change pitch level to emphasize a word Do use a downward pitch at the end of a sentence to sound more assertive Do replace non-words with pauses Do allow your voice to be more animated Don’t speak too softly Don’t talk too fast or stay at the same speed Don’t be afraid of a moment of silence Don’t be monotone Don't use an upward pitch at the end of a sentence, unless it is a question Don’t use non-words like umm’s, ahh’s or er’s Don’t be afraid of using new levels of energy VISUAL (nonverbal) Do use direct eye contact to connect with listeners Do look calm and confident under pressure Do move purposefully Do be aware of your posture Do practice using new gestures Do allow your hands to fall to your sides when you are not using them Do remember to smile Do attend to other team members who are speaking Don’t look over their heads or let your eyes dart around Don’t roll your eyes, frown or make expressions of exasperation Don’t sway or pace Don’t slouch or stand too still and appear stiff Don’t keep your hands in any one place for too long Don’t hold an object in your hands unless you plan to use it Don’t be expressionless or look unhappy Don’t look away, talk, fidget or doodle when other team members are speaking VERBAL (what you say) Do sound positive Do complete each word to be clear and articulate Do plan and memorize your opening and closing statements Do practice Q & A with sample questions Do determine the role of the team leader in the Q & A section Don’t use qualifiers: maybe, perhaps Don’t swallow words or trail off at the end of a sentence LOGISTICS Find out as much as possible about the room, seating arrangements, and the location of the overhead projector(s) Find out how soon you can get into the room prior to presentation to set up Decide where each team member is going to be seated Know the dress code of your audience and wear clothes that are appropriate Discuss what each team member will be wearing Plan the leadership role of the team leader Practice looking like a cohesive team if you are presenting with others Practice transitions between speakers Assign a time keeper within the team Be aware of your time requirements and finish on time Enter and exit gracefully Practice using the overhead and how to quietly change transparencies Use tape to make a guide to place transparencies easily Cover or turn off the overhead projector when not projecting an image on the screen Bring a spare projector bulb Drink liquids at room temperature © Voice For Success® Inc. Coaching Consultants http://voiceforsuccess.com