The more important your talk is or the more nervous you feel, the more you need to practice. Try to practice as close to game conditions as you can - in the same kind of room, in the same voice and at the same pace you'll be using with your visuals and, if it's at all possible, in front of a live audience.


As you practice, pay attention to whether you are audible and clear and try to show some enthusiasm for your talk. You do not need to be a cheerleader, but audiences take their cues in large ways from the speaker's own attitude - a speaker who seems bored will usually get a bored response and a speaker who seems genuinely interested in the topic will usually get an interested response. And if you practice in a flat monotone, that's probably how you'll perform.


If possible, tape-record your practice sessions, even better, videotape them. However you conduct your practice sessions, do be sure to get feedback from some listeners. Take this opportunity to ask for their sug-gestions, both concerning your content and concerning your delivery.


To continue the section on Giving Oral Presentations,


1. Size up the situation.

2. Write out a rough draft of your talk.

3. Outline your talk from your draft - start planning your visuals.

4. Decide on props and visuals.

5. Practice.

6. Deliver the talk.

7. Answer Questions Carefully.

8. Get feedback.