Remember the Why and What of Your Presentation

Nearly every one of us will be asked to give a presentation at some point in our careers. And whether you are a seasoned pro or doing it for the first time, there are pointers that will help you engage your audience.

The updated "Great Presentations" reminds us that, in preparation for your presentation, keep in mind what you are presenting, to whom, why you are presenting, and what you want to see happen.

This month's issue of TD at Work also provides guidance for presenting virtually. Specifically, you still need to:

• Do your preparation and analysis. That is, determine the what, whom, why, and what you want to see happen.

• Practice. Author Jason Sturges writes, "This medium might actually require more practicing—specifically with inserting transitions and feedback opportunities into your script and timing them well, in addition to authentic practicing with the tools of the system."

• Give careful consideration to your visual aids. Just as in a classroom session, you don't want to overload the visuals with too much information. And you'll have to keep in mind that participants likely will be viewing your presentation materials on an 18- or 24-inch screen.

These tips were adapted from the August 2017 issue of TD at Work.