Giving a presentation can be a daunting task for many people—in fact, it’s often cited as one of the greatest fears. You’ve likely heard the usual public speaking advice: practice beforehand, know your audience, and be engaging. While these tips are essential, they’re not always enough to do your very best. To truly elevate your presentation skills, here are a few less conventional strategies you might find helpful, going beyond the basics to help you stand out.
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Bite an Apple.
An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but they apparently can also keep dry throat at bay. Apples are believed to help clear the throat, keep it moist, and prevent a dry mouth because they have a natural astringency. This astringent effect can help remove excess mucus and improve voice clarity. The crunch of the apple also stimulates saliva production, which helps in keeping the throat from drying out during a talk. My podcast guest, former reporter Manjula Selvarajah, swears by biting an apple. After having worked as a journalist for years, she knows what she’s talking about. An added benefit? You won’t present on an empty stomach. May I suggest Granny Smith apples? They’re my favorite!
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Wiggle your Toes
Wiggle your toes to manage your nerves. When you wiggle your toes, you’re contracting and releasing muscles via progressive muscle relaxation, which reduces stress and tension. Tense your toes for 5 seconds, then release the tension. Do this until you feel yourself calming down. Also, with toe wiggling, your focus is on your toes instead of your nervousness. Not thinking about your nerves naturally helps calm you down and feel more in control. Now you’re focusing on what matters: sharing with the audience. Another podcast guest, Conny Lin, suggested this approach. I do it before (and sometimes during) virtual presentations. For in-person events, you may want to ditch the sandals if you try this one, though!
Don’t End a Presentation with Q&A
Traditionally, many presenters, specifically ones giving technical presentations, save Q&A for the end. Once the last question is answered, they thank the audience and leave the stage.
Here’s the problem: if your presentation ends with Q&A, your key points may be overshadowed by the questions. Attendees who didn’t ask questions may leave remembering someone else’s inquiries, not your message.
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Instead, do Q&A before your final wrap-up. For example, as you near the end of your presentation, say, “Any questions before we wrap up?” After addressing questions, segue into a closing statement where you summarize your key takeaways and leave the audience with a clear, memorable message.
By ending with your own words, not the audience’s questions, you make it more likely that your message sticks. It’s a simple shift that can make your presentations more impactful. Others seem to agree with this advice, too.
Apples, toes, and Q&A. Not exactly what first comes to mind when thinking about giving a presentation. Try these tips out, though, and watch how they improve your next presentation and presentations to come.
Photo Credit: Stock Photo via Canva
