Presentation Tips & Tricks
During your career you may be asked to deliver presentations in a wide range of settings, from informal team meetings to high-stakes presentations for clients and stakeholders.
For some people, presenting is exciting and provides an opportunity to showcase their skills, confidence and knowledge. For others, it can feel intimidating and trigger self-doubt or anxiety.
Remember, public speaking is a skill, not an innate talent. Like any skill, it can be developed through learning, practice and experience.
Top Presentation Tips
Study the Experts
Watch experienced public speakers and presenters to learn techniques, structure and delivery styles. TED Talks are a great place to start, covering a wide range of topics and speaking approaches.
Know Your Topic
Presentation nerves often come from feeling underprepared. Research your topic thoroughly and become comfortable with your material so you can focus on engaging with your audience.
Practise Regularly
Look for opportunities to practise speaking in low-pressure situations. Contributing more during team meetings can help build confidence and develop your presentation skills over time.
Focus on Your Audience
Remember that your audience is there to learn and benefit from the information you are sharing. Focus on helping them rather than worrying about how you look or sound.
Ask for Feedback
Reflecting on your performance is one of the fastest ways to improve. Consider recording yourself, practising with a trusted colleague or friend, and asking for constructive feedback after presenting.
Building Confidence
Presenting confidently does not mean never feeling nervous.
Many experienced speakers still feel nervous before presenting. The difference is that they have developed strategies to manage those nerves and channel them positively.
Preparation, practice and experience are the foundations of effective presentation skills.
Further Reading & Resources
If you would like to continue developing your presentation and public speaking skills, the resources below provide practical advice, techniques and inspiration to help you communicate with confidence.
TED Talks
Explore hundreds of engaging presentations from expert speakers across a wide range of topics. TED Talks are a great way to observe effective speaking styles, audience engagement techniques and storytelling.
Visit TED Talks
Forbes: The Art of Presenting
Expert guidance on developing strong presentation skills, engaging audiences and communicating with confidence.
Read Forbes Article
Microsoft Presentation Guidance
Practical advice and support from Microsoft on creating impactful presentations and delivering them successfully.
Visit Microsoft Support
Sources & References
- TED Talks
- Forbes Business Council
- Microsoft Support