Prepare for pitfalls and bumps in the road

Great speakers know, that even when you’re well-rehearsed, things happen that can derail the speaker, the

equipment and your shortlist presentation.

Before you head out with your team, review the “what ifs” that might occur and have a plan to handle them.

“What if I get nervous?” Start slower and louder than your everyday voice.Smile broadly to relax muscles and begin talking to the friendliest face in the room.
“What if I lose my place?” Move on. Summarize the slide or reinforce the main message and go to the next slide or point. Weave the “missing” information into the Q & A session.
“What if they ask hostile questions?” Listen for the intent of the question, not the emotion.Answer with a confident voice and focus on solutions.
“What if we are running out of time?” Get to your last slide and deliver your close.Your team lead might need to get up stand with the current speaker and segue to the big finish.