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If making group presentations is something you do from time to time to increase your exposure and your business, consider yourself fortunate. It's a fact; "public speaking" is one of the most feared activities which most salespeople avoid like the plague. That's good! Why? Because their fear gives you the upper hand, by using an avenue to get in front of prospects others won't utilize. But, making a presentation and making a great presentation are two different things. While a presentation can help you to succeed in large numbers, you can also fail in large numbers without the plan and skills to do it right. Here are some tips for a great presentation.
- Have a Topic
Sounds silly, but some people that speak to groups don't have a key topic to speak about. They fill 30 minutes or an hour with random talk on too many fronts. Your presentation should have one central theme and one title which identifies your talk. For example: "Ten Ways to Finance a Second Home" or "Six Steps to Financing Your First Home" identifies your presentation even before you deliver it.
- Keep it Short
Remember your presentation isn't designed to sell anything except you. Intrigue the audience with helpful information and set the stage for follow up - that's where the real business happens. Most presentations given by sales professionals should be slated for 10, 15 or 30 minutes. Anything more is an overload.
- Have Supportive Materials
It's always a good idea to have simple handouts to support your presentations These might include bullet points on your topic, a few fliers, a company or personal brochure, and your business card all neatly displayed in a two-pocket folder. You can use these materials as talking points during your presentation and your participants can use them for future reference.
- Practice
The best and most experienced speakers still practice and rehearse their presentations. Why? Because it gives them confidence in knowing what they will say. Always practice your presentation three times before you deliver it live. You'll notice a big difference in your timing, pace and comfort level.
- Know your Audience
Before each event, analyze your group. Who will be there? What is their knowledge or experience level? How much do they know about your topic? About you? About your company? This can help you create new twists and angles for each presentation.
- Scout the Space
The physical confines of your presentation room can make or break your event. If the room is hot, crowded, trashy, noisy or otherwise unpleasant, try to do something about it before your presentation. Can the meeting be moved to another location? Would small decorations help? Can tables be rearranged for more space? Visiting the space well ahead of time allows you to make these changes.
- Look Sharp
You are the focal point of your presentation and all eyes will be on you. Groom and dress yourself in your absolute best. Look like a pro.
- Have Fun
When your presentation time comes, enjoy yourself! Audiences love to see speakers who are (or appear to be) having fun. Smile!
- Plan to Follow Up
Keep in mind, your presentation introduces you, opens doors or plants seeds. It does not close sales. Immediate follow up with interested participants closes sales.
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