Post Presentation
Review your presentation and grow
Ask a trusted colleague to attend your presentation and give
you constructive feedback. Be specific in what you ask from them; e.g. “How
well was my point illustrated? Did my humor work well? Did I connect with
them?” When you ask specific questions you will get specific answers. The most
important question you can ask yourself is, “Did I make happen what I wanted to
happen?” If the answer is yes – it was a successful presentation. Did they buy,
were they convinced, did they march in the direction you pointed? That is the
measure of a successful speech. That is the purpose of your presentation skills
in action. Also look at where you might still improve your skills. And plan to
work on this before your next presentation.
When someone compliments you on the presentation be gracious
and ask him or her, “What was the best idea or strongest message that you will
take away and use?” You might be
surprised at what they ‘heard’ versus what you ‘said’. The fastest way to
improve your presentation skills is to review every presentation you deliver.
What worked well? What could you change?
Leverage your presentation
Make your presentation more than an event and part of the
process. Summarize key points and questions from the presentation in your
newsletter and send a note to everyone. Perhaps the speech would make a good
article with some editing. Speaking is only one part of your overall set of
communication and leadership skills. These skills are meant to help you get
done what you need to get done – by you and by others.
Your next presentation
File your notes from the presentation so you can refer to
them next time you present. Include in the file your comments about what you
thought worked well and what you need to improve. Include suggestions to
yourself on what to try differently next time. Remember the great masters of
golf and music are continually improving their skills. They never sit back on
rely on talent alone.
