Giving a Presentation

Giving a public presentation or speech is not the easiest task to accomplish.  The fear of public speaking is the number one fear for the majority of individuals, according to this website.  I am by no means an expert at this subject however in ALES 204 we have had many speakers that have guided us with knowledge and expertise. Therefore, I am writing this blog to inform and educate you on how to give a good presentation in front of an audience, in hopes to reduce the stress involved with public speaking.

From "Public Speaking: A Few Tips from my List," by Prabhu, B.R., 2007,
 http://deshika.wordpress.com/2007/11/27/public-speaking-a-few-tips-from-my-list/.

Organization is a huge element in a presentation since flow is needed in order to keep the attention of the audience.  According to MC, the presenter must connect with their audience by telling a “hook,” which could include a greeting, a joke or even a story that is appropriate to the audience.  The introduction follows the hook, which includes the main objective of the speech.  Next is the body that is the core of the presentation, containing one or two main ideas.  Lastly is the conclusion that not only sums up the presentation, but also includes the take home message that the audience should remember from the presentation.  If these elements are included, your presentation is sure to flow, as well as look organized.  The most important part of your content and organization is that your speech needs to flow, be logical, be simple and be informative. 

Even though your speech may be well organized and have all of the important parts of the content present, your speech needs to be practiced.  Practice is the key to a great speech!  If your presentation contains everything that it should, but the way that you present it is insufficient, your presentation will not be memorable.  In order to better convey your message to the audience, it is really important to connect with the audience emotionally, through a common interest and through a common passion.  Another important aspect to consider is the clarity of speech.  Projection, tone, pronunciation and inflection are important factors to consider with clarity of speech.  If these factors are properly done, the overall presentation can greatly benefit by connecting with the audience and allowing the audience to be able to hear the presenter.

Although giving a presentation may be nerve racking, a lot of people also worry about social media and other advanced types of communication.  Cassandra H, a fellow classmate, has a great blog about the debates surrounding social media.  She goes over the different kinds of social media or other types of communication, and talks about the benefits and disadvantages she has found in her personal life about these communication methods.

Until next time,

Janessa is out.