Oral Presentation Skills - Check List

Planning the talk

Preparation

Determine the purpose: to inform, persuade or, less often, to entertain. What should the audience know/be able to do when you have finished?
Think about your audience: who are they, how do they think and respond? This will affect your message and style. The responsibility that they received the messgae is yours.
Over a period of time jot down thoughts, however wild.
Plan structure:
- B - CLOSING: Sumary, conclusions. "Tell 'em what you are going to tell 'em; tell 'em; then tell 'em that you have told 'em".
Produce Script - if to be read, or preferably notes of key points as cues (eg on cards). Cut out superfluous information. Adjust to time available.
Plan any visual aids required (OHPs, charts, films, slides, handouts etc). Remeber you can use gestures, symbols, pictures as well as words - if they help you explain your points.

Giving the talk

Language

In favour of simple, direct language with short words and sentances. (with experience introduce variety in length of words and sentances, if there is a clear purpose). Bring out main ideas early in a sentance, use examples and analogies familiar to the audience. Avoid mannerisms of speech, eg "in fact", "sort of". Never overestimate the audiences knowledge; never underestimate their intellegence.

Manner

Generally better to be informal. Try to look relaxed and control body gestures.

Look at the audience - make eye contact.

Make sure it is audible.

Breath deeply before hand - adds to confidence and mental alertness.

Object is to persuade, hold interest, whilst giving contrast and emphasis to avoid monotony. To do this use the expressive powers of your voice, varying pace, pitch and pressure.

Clear Speech - Some Do's and Dont's

Attract persons attention first (with care)
Get on the same level
Open your mouth and speak clearly
Tell the person what you intend to talk about
Face your listener until you have finished speaking
Speak in normal rhythm not staccato speech
Use sentaces not single words
Be prepared to rephrase what you have said
Make sure you have been understood before continuing
Use gestures but keep them to a minimum
If it help, use a pencil and pad

Do Not

Shout
Mumble
Speak too fast
Use sloppy speech
Suddenly change the subject
Turn away while speaking
Cover your mouth
Fidget/wander around
Say "it doesn't matter" or "nevermind" if a person is unable to hear you
Speak with anything in your mouth