1.
Keep the goal in mind - Have a very clear idea of a problem to be solved, an issue to be resolved.
Know from the start what your call to action will be.
Everything you do from beginning to end will support that goal.
Don't ramble or include irrelevant material Keep it short, sweet, and to the point.
The best speakers have always stayed on point and used plain language to support their point.
2.
Outline - Tried and true The old tell 'em what you're going to tell 'em, tell 'em, then tell 'em what you told 'em.
It really works.
Instead of copious notes that you're tempted to rely on, index cards with your heading and subheadings or a single page with your outline on the lectern or podium will keep you on track.
If you're using a PowerPoint presentation, use the screen that faces you as your notes.
3.
Open with an attention getter - Whether it's a startling statistic, a question for them to respond to, getting them all out of their seats for an exercise, or a humorous anecdote, you want to get their attention.
You want them to sit forward in their seats, raise their eyebrows, show signs of life, even if it's right after lunch.
Once you have their attention, your job is to keep it.
4.
Use three points to make your main point - Make the structure solid.
Don't bounce back and forth from one supporting topic to another.
Have your three points and keep them clearly differentiated.
If you have a handout, nothing is more distracting than having the audience flip back and forth through the pages.
Keep the structure in place so people don't have to work to follow your logic.
5.
Keep them awake - Surprise them with an unexpected action or loud statement.
Darren LaCroix, the 2001 International Champion for Toastmasters and successful professional speaker and coach, fell on his face to show the audience that falling on your face isn't as bad as we think and kept talking.
If you don't know how to do something safely, don't do it but do surprise them.
6.
Keep the visuals simple - Nothing pops less than a presenter who reads lengthy notes or PowerPoint slides to the audience.
You might as well offer pillows and blankets to the audience as they file into the room.
Use your outline headings on your visuals, not paragraphs.
Use graphics and photographs.
It's true that a picture is worth a thousand words.
Before and after pictures side by side can tell your story.
7.
Have a closing that sticks with them - Tie your conclusion back to your opening, reiterate your three main supporting points, and say how your approach is going to solve the problem or resolve the issue.
Give your audience a call to action, a specific step that will make a difference.
If there is a physical or internet address they need, give them the address in your handout or on a card.
Invite them to follow up with you.