Before You Begin

12 Things to do before your next presentation

People often ask me for “last minute advice”. The answer usually isn't a dramatic technique or secret trick. It's a collection of small habits that help them think more clearly, connect more effectively, and perform with greater confidence.

Here are twelve easy habits worth adopting.

1. Visit the room early

Spend a few minutes getting comfortable with the space. Familiarity reduces uncertainty and allows you to focus on your audience instead of your surroundings. It also helps you flag any potential concerns about staging or audience configuration.

2. Test the technology

Confirm that your slides, microphone, clicker, videos, and internet connection all work as expected. If a five-minute equipment check before your presentation prevents even one minute of equipment failure during your presentation, you’ve made a brilliant investment of your time. 

3. Stand where you'll start

Take your starting position before the audience arrives. Seeing the room from your perspective helps you feel more settled and makes the opening feel familiar. You may want to practice looking around the room as you speak. 

4. Practice your first minute

Your opening sets the tone for everything that follows. Practice the first few lines of your presentation. Make sure your words are clear, and that you are fully present (not stuck in your head).

5. Remind yourself of your objective

Ask yourself: What do I want this audience to think, feel, and do? That answer should guide every decision you make during your presentation, as well as your rhythm, tone, and energy. 

6. Meet a few audience members

When possible, introduce yourself before the presentation begins. Seeing familiar faces in the audience often makes the experience feel more like a conversation and less like a performance. It also gives you a feel for their "vibe".

7. Slow yourself down

Adrenaline has a way of making speakers rush. Take a few slow breaths and consciously reduce your pace before you begin.

8. Drink water

A dry mouth can affect your voice and cause word flubs. Avoid drinking too much liquid for obvious reasons! If your mouth is still dry after a few sips, use a product for dry mouth, such as Biotene. 

9. Remove distractions

Silence your phone, close unnecessary applications, and clear your presentation screen of anything unrelated. Unexpected distractions have a funny way of popping up during presentations. 

10. Prepare for the questions

Think beyond your slides. Consider the questions you're likely to receive and how you'll respond if the discussion takes an unexpected turn.

11. Breathe deeply and relax your face

We all hold tension in different parts of the face. Some common areas are the jaw, the muscles around the mouth, and the muscles around the eyes. Feel for the tension and gently massage those areas. If you’re wearing make-up, make sure you don’t smudge it. While you're at it, relax your whole body, especially your hands, neck, and shoulders.

12. Pause before your first sentence

There's no prize for starting quickly. Take a moment, make eye contact, get comfortable, and let the room settle before you begin. You'll immediately project greater confidence and presence.

Most importantly, remember you’re there to provide something of value. Keep your focus on your audience and how to create a meaningful experience. The rest will follow.