Engaging Your Audience: Presentations in the 21st Century

Angela S. Williamson

Adjunct Professor & Doctoral Candidate, Capella University

Can A Powerful Presentation Change Your Life?

YES!

Questions to Ponder…..

• Why is public speaking different in the 21st Century?

• What do I need to know about these changes?

Presentation Takeaway #1Set A Goal!

• Transition to “virtual” is not a “natural” one for most presenters

• Operating technology is not the only issue

• There is a learning curve

Presentation Takeaway #2Hook Them In & Don’t Let Go!

• Communication rock stars will engage, motivate, and even inspire traditional & virtual audiences

• Your opening always engages your audience in the topic & establishes goodwill

Presentation Takeaway #3Give Them Something To Chew On!

• Breakdown your speech into the major points you want to make

• Then build your content around them with the aim of finishing on your key point

• Vocal variety is your friend!

Presentation Takeaway #4Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!

• If you’re using PowerPoint aim for 2-3 slides per key point

• Add a summary slide at the end to re-iterate the points you have made

• PowerPoint or Prezi?

Presentation Takeaway #4Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!

• Don’t clutter the slide

• Rehearse it to yourself 

• Rehearse it in front of others 

• Appearance does matter!

Presentation Takeaway #5Leave Them Wanting More!

• Make the conclusion memorable

• Challenge your audience to respond

• Have a strong call to action!

A Good Contact Slide Goes A Long Way!

Questions?Don’t Be Shy!

Let’s Recap!

1. Set A Goal!

2. Hook Them In & Don’t Let Go!

3. Give Them Something To Chew On!

4. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!

5. Leave Them Wanting More!

Practice, Practice, Practice!

It’s Your Turn!