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5 STEPS TO ACHIEVE A SUCCESSFUL SEMINAR

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The need for quick learning has grown tremendously. People seek short yet substantial pieces of information delivered in a timely manner. Rather than digging through hundreds of pages of research material or sitting through a full-semester class, an easy way to gain valuable information is to join industry experts as they discuss topics of interest in a seminar.

Seminars are a cost-efficient and effective way for companies to reach their target customers and/or industry partners, and when done right, can be a great lead-generating mechanism.

Here are 5 steps to achieving a successful and smooth-running seminar:

• Determine the Who, What, When, Where and Why
• Prepare a Registration Process
• Develop an Outreach Strategy
• Prepare for the Presentation
• Develop a Follow-Up Strategy

Determine the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of Your Seminar

Crafting a successful seminar takes more than just a topic. It requires dedicated planning, consideration of your audience, and a clear strategy. By defining the who, what, when, where, and why of your event, you'll lay the groundwork for a well-defined seminar that achieves its objectives.

The WHY – Clarify the Objective

Why are you holding this seminar? What is the objective? Is it to educate current clients? To generate new clients? Is it to establish your business as thought leaders? Or to reinforce your image as a subject matter expert? The answers to these questions will significantly impact the steps you take to structure and deliver a successful seminar.

The WHAT – Choose a Topic

Having a clear objective will help guide your topic selection. Are you aiming to establish your business as a thought leader? Choose an innovative and educational theme, backed by research and offering well-rounded perspectives on industry-relevant topics. On the other hand, if you're looking to educate current customers, focus on topics that address their common questions or how your field of business directly impacts them.

The WHO – Identify the Target Audience and Presenter(s)

The success of your seminar hinges on understanding who you're presenting to. Are you targeting CEOs, CFOs, HR Directors, or a specific industry like small businesses, manufacturing facilities, or educators? Be as specific as possible – this will guide your outreach strategy and the tone of your presentation.

Choosing Your Presenter:

Once you've identified your topic and audience, select the ideal presenter(s). Look for someone with:

• Expertise: Deep knowledge of the seminar topic.
• Communication Skills: Comfort speaking to your specific target audience.
• Industry Credibility: A strong reputation within the relevant field.
• Broad Knowledge: The ability to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.

By carefully considering your target audience and presenter selection, you'll lay the groundwork for a seminar that resonates with your attendees and achieves its goals.

The WHEN – Pin Down a Time Slot

With your topic and presenter confirmed, it's time to choose the ideal timeframe. Consider how much time is needed to comprehensively cover your chosen topic and achieve your objectives, while also keeping your target audience in mind. Attention spans vary depending on the audience and topic complexity, so aim for a duration that's informative yet engaging. Remember to factor in a dedicated Q&A session and a meet-and-greet opportunity to allow for interaction and networking.

The WHERE – Secure a Location

The seminar's objective and target audience heavily influence the ideal location for your seminar. Is your goal to educate current clients? Prioritize a central location convenient for them. Aiming to generate new leads? Choose a venue that attracts attendees from your target geographic area.

Prepare a Registration Process to Drive Attendees to Your Seminar

With your seminar objectives and strategy locked in, it's time to craft a seamless registration process. This crucial step will be the bridge between attracting attendees and welcoming them to your event.

Create a Registration Landing Page

To prepare for online registration, create an online registration page to send your audience to.

On the landing page, include:

• Memorable URL: Create a short, easy-to-remember URL for your registration page (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com/seminar).
• Compelling Description: Hook potential attendees with a clear and concise description of the seminar's benefits. Highlight what they'll learn and how it will impact them.
• Event Details: Clearly display the date, time, and location (both physical and virtual if applicable) of the seminar.
• Presenter Information: Introduce your presenter(s) with a brief bio and highlight their credentials. This builds trust and establishes the value of their expertise.
• Registration Form: Provide a simple registration form with essential fields like Name, Company, Email, and Phone Number.

Set Up a Registration Confirmation Email

Set up a registration confirmation email to be triggered and sent right after the attendee registers for the seminar. The confirmation email should include the seminar location, time, and date of the event. Include an “add to calendar” link to make sure registrants don’t forget about your event.

Set up a registration confirmation email to be triggered and sent right after someone registers for your seminar. This will send them a prompt confirmation email to solidify their spot. This email should include:

• Essential Details: Reiterate the seminar's location (physical or virtual), date, and time.
• "Save the Date" Reminder: Embed a convenient "Add to Calendar" link to help attendees schedule the event effortlessly. This reduces the risk of them forgetting and missing out.
• Additional Information (Optional): Consider including a link to a more detailed event page or providing logistical information (parking details, dress code, etc.) if relevant.

By sending a clear and informative confirmation email, you'll enhance the user experience and ensure a smooth registration process.

Prepare a Reminder Follow-Up Process

A high turnout is crucial for a successful seminar. To achieve this, implement a reminder campaign in the days leading up to the event. Craft informative emails that remind registrants about the seminar's benefits. Highlight key takeaways, reintroduce the speakers, and answer frequently asked questions to address any concerns.

Consider supplementing your email campaign with phone calls to a targeted segment of registrants. This could be high-value clients who might need additional information or those with less interaction. These personalized touches can solidify their commitment and ensure a smooth registration-to-attendance transition.

Develop an Outreach Strategy to Drive Attendees to Your Seminar

The key to a successful seminar is attracting the right attendees. Your outreach strategy will depend on your objective. If you are targeting current clients, just reach out to them directly. You already have their information! If you are targeting new prospects, you’ll need to create a targeted strategy to get your seminar information in front of them.

The channels you choose will vary depending on your audience. Be realistic about your reach, but don't be afraid to invest in resources if needed to maximize attendance.

Spread the Word and Reach Your Target Audience

Getting the right people to your seminar is key. Here are impactful ways to promote it:

• Email Marketing: Craft an email campaign specifically for your seminar, highlighting the benefits and sending registrants to the dedicated landing page. Include a teaser and link in your regular newsletters too.
• Social Media: Share the registration link across your company's LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ pages. Use catchy captions to grab attention and drive traffic.
• Targeted Direct Mail (Optional): For specific audiences, consider a targeted direct mail campaign with promotional materials. Include a clear call to action with the seminar registration URL.
• Telemarketing for Prospects (Optional): If resources allow, a telemarketing campaign can be effective for reaching prospects you only have contact information for.

Remember to include your seminar registration link in all marketing materials!

Determine and Use Specific Channels to Reach a Larger Audience

Reaching beyond your existing contact list can significantly boost your seminar's visibility and attendance. Here are some strategies for promoting your seminar:

• Press Releases: Distributing a press release about your seminar through digital channels can attract new website traffic and potential attendees who may not be familiar with your brand.
• Targeted Social Media Ads: Maximize your reach by promoting your seminar posts on social media platforms. This allows you to target specific demographics and interests, ensuring your message reaches a wider pool of qualified prospects within your target market. Encourage team members to share the posts on their personal pages as well to leverage their networks.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with complementary businesses or organizations that share your target audience.
• Industry Associations: Identify local associations relevant to your target audience. Partner with them to distribute your seminar information through their channels, such as website ads or email marketing.

By implementing these strategies alongside your core email and social media efforts, you can significantly expand your reach and attract a larger audience to your seminar.

Prepare for the Seminar Presentation

While attracting attendees is crucial, don't neglect the final touches on your presentation and seminar execution. Here are the next steps:

Prepare an Agenda – and Stick with It

Develop a clear and concise agenda that outlines the seminar's objectives, key points, and timeline. Sharing this agenda with registrants in advance keeps everyone focused and organized. This also allows them to plan accordingly and maximize their learning experience.

Create a Visual and Audience-Appropriate Presentation

Depending on who your target audience is, the theme of your presentation may vary. As your presentation is crafted, make sure it is clear, visible, and easy to follow. It is important to speak to the voice of your target audience’s persona throughout the presentation and relate it back to them to make them feel comfortable.

Test the Presentation with Multiple Run-Throughs

Once the presentation is set, schedule time for run-throughs with the presenter(s). Practice makes perfect, so schedule as many run-throughs as needed until the presentation runs smoothly and all technology devices are working properly.

Provide Hand-Outs and Materials

Provide a printed hard copy of your presentation along with any other marketing materials to enhance the takeaway of your seminar. Providing your audience with pieces they can leave the seminar with creates one more touch point to stay in front of them.

Consider providing a printed handout summarizing the presentation's key points, visuals, and resources. This allows attendees to easily refer back to the information even after the seminar. You can also offer attendees the option to receive the complete presentation electronically after the seminar. This provides a convenient way for them to delve deeper into the topics covered and revisit specific points later.

These complementary resources not only enhance the learning experience but also serve as a lasting reminder of your brand and the valuable information presented.

Develop a Strong Post-Seminar Follow-Up Strategy

A successful seminar doesn't end with the final presentation. Following up with attendees is crucial for nurturing relationships and maximizing the impact of your event.

Provide a Post-Seminar Survey

While paper surveys have traditionally been used, consider a digital alternative to capture attendee feedback after your seminar. Sending the survey electronically via email allows attendees to complete it at their convenience, potentially increasing your response rate. This method also allows for easier data collection and analysis.

Schedule a Follow-Up Thank You Email

Your attendees carved valuable time out of their busy schedules to learn from you. Show your appreciation by reaching out soon after the seminar. This follow-up serves two important purposes. First, it allows you to express sincere gratitude for their attendance and participation. Second, it provides another touchpoint to stay connected and lets you provide a call to action with the next steps for certain attendees.

Let’s Build a Successful Seminar Together

Seminars offer a valuable opportunity to share knowledge and connect with your target audience. By following these steps, you can ensure you have a successful seminar that delivers a lasting impact. However, planning a seminar can be a complex undertaking. World Synergy can be your partner in navigating the process. We offer a range of services that can enhance and streamline your seminar planning. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you to create an impactful seminar experience.

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How To Write A Presentation 101 | Step-by-Step Guides with Best Examples | 2024 Reveals

Jane Ng • 05 April, 2024 • 9 min read

Is it difficult to start of presentation? You're standing before a room full of eager listeners, ready to share your knowledge and captivate their attention. But where do you begin? How do you structure your ideas and convey them effectively?

Take a deep breath, and fear not! In this article, we'll provide a road map on how to write a presentation covering everything from crafting a script to creating an engaging introduction.

So, let's dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a presentation , what should be in a powerful presentation.

• How To Write A Presentation Script
• How to Write A Presentation Introduction 

Key Takeaways

Tips for better presentation.

• How to start a presentation
• How to introduce yourself

Start in seconds.

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Presentations are all about connecting with your audience. 

Presenting is a fantastic way to share information, ideas, or arguments with your audience. Think of it as a structured approach to effectively convey your message. And you've got options such as slideshows, speeches, demos, videos, and even multimedia presentations!

The purpose of a presentation can vary depending on the situation and what the presenter wants to achieve. 

• In the business world, presentations are commonly used to pitch proposals, share reports, or make sales pitches. 
• In educational settings, presentations are a go-to for teaching or delivering engaging lectures. 
• For conferences, seminars, and public events—presentations are perfect for dishing out information, inspiring folks, or even persuading the audience.

That sounds brilliant. But, how to write a presentation?

• Clear and Engaging Introduction: Start your presentation with a bang! Hook your audience's attention right from the beginning by using a captivating story, a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful quote. Clearly state the purpose of your presentation and establish a connection with your listeners.
• Well-Structured Content: Organize your content logically and coherently. Divide your presentation into sections or main points and provide smooth transitions between them. Each section should flow seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive narrative. Use clear headings and subheadings to guide your audience through the presentation.
• Compelling Visuals: Incorporate visual aids, such as images, graphs, or videos, to enhance your presentation. Make sure your visuals are visually appealing, relevant, and easy to understand. Use a clean and uncluttered design with legible fonts and appropriate color schemes. 
• Engaging Delivery: Pay attention to your delivery style and body language. You should maintain eye contact with your audience, use gestures to emphasize key points, and vary your tone of voice to keep the presentation dynamic. 
• Clear and Memorable Conclusion: Leave your audience with a lasting impression by providing a strong closing statement, a call to action, or a thought-provoking question. Make sure your conclusion ties back to your introduction and reinforces the core message of your presentation.

How To Write A Presentation Script (With Examples)

To successfully convey your message to your audience, you must carefully craft and organize your presentation script. Here are steps on how to write a presentation script: 

1/ Understand Your Purpose and Audience

• Clarify the purpose of your presentation. Are you informing, persuading, or entertaining?
• Identify your target audience and their knowledge level, interests, and expectations.
• Define what presentation format you want to use

2/ Outline the Structure of Your Presentation

Strong opening.

Start with an engaging opening that grabs the audience's attention and introduces your topic. Some types of openings you can use are: 

• Start with a Thought-Provoking Question: "Have you ever...?"
• Begin with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: "Did you know that....?"
• Use a Powerful Quote: "As Maya Angelou once said,...."
• Tell a Compelling Story : "Picture this: You're standing at...."
• Start with a Bold Statement: "In the fast-paced digital age...."

Main Points

Clearly state your main points or key ideas that you will discuss throughout the presentation.

• Clearly State the Purpose and Main Points: Example: "In this presentation, we will delve into three key areas. First,... Next,... Finally,.... we'll discuss...."
• Provide Background and Context: Example: "Before we dive into the details, let's understand the basics of....."
• Present Supporting Information and Examples: Example: "To illustrate...., let's look at an example. In,....."
• Address Counterarguments or Potential Concerns: Example: "While..., we must also consider... ."
• Recap Key Points and Transition to the Next Section: Example: "To summarize, we've... Now, let's shift our focus to..."

Remember to organize your content logically and coherently, ensuring smooth transitions between sections.

You can conclude with a strong closing statement summarizing your main points and leaving a lasting impression. Example: "As we conclude our presentation, it's clear that... By...., we can...."

3/ Craft Clear and Concise Sentences

Once you've outlined your presentation, you need to edit your sentences. Use clear and straightforward language to ensure your message is easily understood.

Alternatively, you can break down complex ideas into simpler concepts and provide clear explanations or examples to aid comprehension.

4/ Use Visual Aids and Supporting Materials

Use supporting materials such as statistics, research findings, or real-life examples to back up your points and make them more compelling. 

• Example: "As you can see from this graph,... This demonstrates...."

5/ Include Engagement Techniques

Incorporate interactive elements to engage your audience, such as Q&A sessions , conducting live polls, or encouraging participation. You can also spin more funs into group, by randomly dividing people into different groups to get more diverse feedbacks!

6/ Rehearse and Revise

• Practice delivering your presentation script to familiarize yourself with the content and improve your delivery.
• Revise and edit your script as needed, removing any unnecessary information or repetitions.

7/ Seek Feedback

You can share your script or deliver a practice presentation to a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor to gather feedback on your script and make adjustments accordingly.

More on Script Presentation

How to Write A Presentation Introduction with Examples

How to write presentations that are engaging and visually appealing? Looking for introduction ideas for the presentation? As mentioned earlier, once you have completed your script, it's crucial to focus on editing and refining the most critical element—the opening of your presentation - the section that determines whether you can captivate and retain your audience's attention right from the start. 

Here is a guide on how to craft an opening that grabs your audience's attention from the very first minute: 

1/ Start with a Hook

To begin, you can choose from five different openings mentioned in the script based on your desired purpose and content. Alternatively, you can opt for the approach that resonates with you the most, and instills your confidence. Remember, the key is to choose a starting point that aligns with your objectives and allows you to deliver your message effectively.

2/ Establish Relevance and Context

Then you should establish the topic of your presentation and explain why it is important or relevant to your audience. Connect the topic to their interests, challenges, or aspirations to create a sense of relevance.

3/ State the Purpose

Clearly articulate the purpose or goal of your presentation. Let the audience know what they can expect to gain or achieve by listening to your presentation.

4/ Preview Your Main Points

Give a brief overview of the main points or sections you will cover in your presentation. It helps the audience understand the structure and flow of your presentation and creates anticipation.

5/ Establish Credibility

Share your expertise or credentials related to the topic to build trust with the audience, such as a brief personal story, relevant experience, or mentioning your professional background.

6/ Engage Emotionally

Connect emotional levels with your audience by appealing to their aspirations, fears, desires, or values. They help create a deeper connection and engagement from the very beginning.

Make sure your introduction is concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details or lengthy explanations. Aim for clarity and brevity to maintain the audience's attention.

For example, Topic: Work-life balance

"Good morning, everyone! Can you imagine waking up each day feeling energized and ready to conquer both your personal and professional pursuits? Well, that's exactly what we'll explore today – the wonderful world of work-life balance. In a fast-paced society where work seems to consume every waking hour, it's vital to find that spot where our careers and personal lives harmoniously coexist. Throughout this presentation, we'll dive into practical strategies that help us achieve that coveted balance, boost productivity, and nurture our overall well-being. 

But before we dive in, let me share a bit about my journey. As a working professional and a passionate advocate for work-life balance, I have spent years researching and implementing strategies that have transformed my own life. I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all of you today, with the hope of inspiring positive change and creating a more fulfilling work-life balance for everyone in this room. So, let's get started!"

🎉 Check out: How to Start a Presentation?

Whether you're a seasoned speaker or new to the stage, understanding how to write a presentation that conveys your message effectively is a valuable skill. By following the steps in this guide, you can become a captivating presenter and make your mark in every presentation you deliver.

Additionally, AhaSlides can significantly enhance your presentation's impact. With AhaSlides, you can use live polls , quizzes , and word cloud to turn your presentation into an engaging and interactive experience. Let's take a moment to explore our vast template library !

Frequently Asked Questions

How to write a presentation step by step .

You can refer to our step-by-step guide on How To Write A Presentation Script: Understand Your Purpose and Audience Outline the Structure of Your Presentation Craft Clear and Concise Sentences Use Visual Aids and Supporting Material Include Engagement Techniques Rehearse and Revise Seek Feedback

How do you start a presentation? 

You can start with an engaging opening that grabs the audience's attention and introduces your topic. Consider using one of the following approaches: Start with a Thought-Provoking Question: "Have you ever...?" Begin with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: "Did you know that....?" Use a Powerful Quote: "As Maya Angelou once said,...." Tell a Compelling Story : "Picture this: You're standing at...." Start with a Bold Statement: "In the fast-paced digital age...."

What are the five parts of a presentation?

When it comes to presentation writing, a typical presentation consists of the following five parts: Introduction: Capturing the audience's attention, introducing yourself, stating the purpose, and providing an overview. Main Body: Presenting main points, evidence, examples, and arguments. Visual Aids: Using visuals to enhance understanding and engage the audience. Conclusion: Summarizing main points, restating key message, and leaving a memorable takeaway or call to action. Q&A or Discussion: Optional part for addressing questions and encouraging audience participation.

A writer who wants to create practical and valuable content for the audience

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Preparing And Presenting a Seminar - A Guide.

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The primary objective of seminar presentation is to enhance presentation skills when persuading, educating, or informing an audience. Specifically, it provides a focus on the fundamental aspects of a quality academic, professional and business communications including structure, preparation and strategy for delivery, using visual aids, and handling question and answer sessions. The presenter/student practices by preparing and delivering an ideal real-life academic/business presentation. Strict adherence to the instructions outlined allows the presenter to evaluate his/her progress and alter any distracting behaviours before and during presentation. It also enables the participant to learn by doing. The aim of this paper is to introduce students to simple principles on how to plan, writs and present their findings as technical conference papers, then act as the mini-conference programme committee members in reviewing each other's submissions. Finally, in addition to the model itself, description of some variations in instantiation and an assessment of the benefits of this general approach and recommendation for adoption by faculties and educators are proffered. Introduction Rarely are the three pillars of academia-research, teaching and service-addressed together, within one intellectually cohesive context in the graduate curriculum. Such a context is important for exposing students to the interrelationships among these facets. Oftentimes, people are confused what a seminar, workshop or conference means. They are sometimes considered to mean the same thing. However, workshop is a brief intensive educational programme for a relatively small group of people that focuses on techniques and skills in a particular field. Seminar on the other hand is a meeting of a group of advanced students studying under a professor/officer with each doing original research and all exchanging results of their findings through reports and discussions. A conference is a meeting of two or more persons/bodies organized for the benefit of discussing matters of common concern, which usually involves formal interchange of views.

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.css-1qrtm5m{display:block;margin-bottom:8px;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:14px;line-height:1.5714285714285714;-webkit-letter-spacing:-0.35px;-moz-letter-spacing:-0.35px;-ms-letter-spacing:-0.35px;letter-spacing:-0.35px;font-weight:300;color:#606F7B;}@media (min-width:600px){.css-1qrtm5m{font-size:16px;line-height:1.625;-webkit-letter-spacing:-0.5px;-moz-letter-spacing:-0.5px;-ms-letter-spacing:-0.5px;letter-spacing:-0.5px;}} Best Practices 5 essential preparation steps for a successful presentation

by Tom Rielly • June 15, 2020

Keeping your presentation visuals minimalistic, simple, and clear is just one important step to remember when designing a hit presentation. Leaving nothing to chance, great presenters prove quite methodical as they prepare. Here’s a checklist for everything you need to keep in mind before your next presentation:

1. Choose the right software for your needs

The easiest way to select the right presentation software for you is to simply find the one that is native to your device. For example, if you have a Mac, use Apple Keynote, if you work on Windows, use PowerPoint. Google Slides is recommended if you’re working with someone, as it makes collaboration very easy. Another software option is Prezi: a specialty tool called Prezi that creates a presentation using motion, zoom, and panning across one giant visual space.

2. Organize your files

As you develop your script and visuals, you will need to start assembling all the assets for your slides. Create a unique folder on your computer to hold these items. Keep the folder organized by media type (presentation drafts, photos, videos, scripts) and back them up frequently to the Cloud or external disk. Label each file with a specific descriptive name, e.g. “Susan Johnson singing magpie 2020”, as opposed to “IMG_4043.jpg”, which can make it confusing to find your assets. The more organized you are up front, the easier preparing for your presentation will be.

3. Prepare your presentation materials

Make sure your presentation materials (script, graphics, actual slides) are saved in at least two safe spots (for example, your computer and an external USB drive) and are backed-up frequently. If you are using an online presentation software, such as Google Slides, be sure to also download a copy of your presentation in case the internet connection is unreliable. Having all the individual assets on hand in addition to your presentation slides can be helpful if you experience tech issues before presenting, or if you need to make any last minute changes. Make sure to label your final presentation with the title and your name so it’s easy to find.

4. Practice, practice, practice!

Remember, practice makes perfect. People often run out of time making their presentations and have no time to practice. Most TED speakers practice at least ten times. Neuroscientist Jill-Bolte Taylor gave one of the most successful Talks in TED history with nearly 27 million views. How did she do it? She practiced her Talk over 40 times! By rehearsing multiple times you will naturally memorize your Talk, which means you won’t need note cards when you give your final presentation.

5. Do a final test run

Before presenting, make sure the equipment you need is working properly. It’s generally good practice to rehearse standing on the exact stage with the exact lighting using the exact computer that you will be using in your final presentation.

Here’s a quick checklist of what to look for when testing your equipment:

• If you're not using your own computer, the one provided might be slower and have trouble playing media. If you have videos or other media, make sure they play correctly
• Test the projector to make sure it’s HD
• Make sure images are clear
• Test the sound of any clips you use, as this is what goes wrong most frequently
• If you’re using a mic, test the volume

Don’t let technical issues or other blunders overshadow your presentation. By following these guidelines, and with a little preparation, you can engineer out the problems BEFORE they happen.

Ready to learn more about how to make your presentation even better? Get TED Masterclass and develop your ideas into TED-style talks

© 2024 TED Conferences, LLC. All rights reserved. Please note that the TED Talks Usage policy does not apply to this content and is not subject to our creative commons license.

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How to Structure your Presentation, with Examples

August 3, 2018 - Dom Barnard

For many people the thought of delivering a presentation is a daunting task and brings about a  great deal of nerves . However, if you take some time to understand how effective presentations are structured and then apply this structure to your own presentation, you’ll appear much more confident and relaxed.

Here is our complete guide for structuring your presentation, with examples at the end of the article to demonstrate these points.

Why is structuring a presentation so important?

If you’ve ever sat through a great presentation, you’ll have left feeling either inspired or informed on a given topic. This isn’t because the speaker was the most knowledgeable or motivating person in the world. Instead, it’s because they know how to structure presentations – they have crafted their message in a logical and simple way that has allowed the audience can keep up with them and take away key messages.

Research has supported this, with studies showing that audiences retain structured information  40% more accurately  than unstructured information.

In fact, not only is structuring a presentation important for the benefit of the audience’s understanding, it’s also important for you as the speaker. A good structure helps you remain calm, stay on topic, and avoid any awkward silences.

What will affect your presentation structure?

Generally speaking, there is a natural flow that any decent presentation will follow which we will go into shortly. However, you should be aware that all presentation structures will be different in their own unique way and this will be due to a number of factors, including:

• Whether you need to deliver any demonstrations
• How  knowledgeable the audience  already is on the given subject
• How much interaction you want from the audience
• Any time constraints there are for your talk
• What setting you are in
• Your ability to use any kinds of visual assistance

Before choosing the presentation’s structure answer these questions first:

• What is your presentation’s aim?
• Who are the audience?
• What are the main points your audience should remember afterwards?

When reading the points below, think critically about what things may cause your presentation structure to be slightly different. You can add in certain elements and add more focus to certain moments if that works better for your speech.

What is the typical presentation structure?

This is the usual flow of a presentation, which covers all the vital sections and is a good starting point for yours. It allows your audience to easily follow along and sets out a solid structure you can add your content to.

1. Greet the audience and introduce yourself

Before you start delivering your talk, introduce yourself to the audience and clarify who you are and your relevant expertise. This does not need to be long or incredibly detailed, but will help build an immediate relationship between you and the audience. It gives you the chance to briefly clarify your expertise and why you are worth listening to. This will help establish your ethos so the audience will trust you more and think you’re credible.

Read our tips on  How to Start a Presentation Effectively

2. Introduction

In the introduction you need to explain the subject and purpose of your presentation whilst gaining the audience’s interest and confidence. It’s sometimes helpful to think of your introduction as funnel-shaped to help filter down your topic:

• Introduce your general topic
• Explain your topic area
• State the issues/challenges in this area you will be exploring
• State your presentation’s purpose – this is the basis of your presentation so ensure that you provide a statement explaining how the topic will be treated, for example, “I will argue that…” or maybe you will “compare”, “analyse”, “evaluate”, “describe” etc.
• Provide a statement of what you’re hoping the outcome of the presentation will be, for example, “I’m hoping this will be provide you with…”
• Show a preview of the organisation of your presentation

In this section also explain:

• The length of the talk.
• Signal whether you want audience interaction – some presenters prefer the audience to ask questions throughout whereas others allocate a specific section for this.
• If it applies, inform the audience whether to take notes or whether you will be providing handouts.

The way you structure your introduction can depend on the amount of time you have been given to present: a  sales pitch  may consist of a quick presentation so you may begin with your conclusion and then provide the evidence. Conversely, a speaker presenting their idea for change in the world would be better suited to start with the evidence and then conclude what this means for the audience.

Keep in mind that the main aim of the introduction is to grab the audience’s attention and connect with them.

3. The main body of your talk

The main body of your talk needs to meet the promises you made in the introduction. Depending on the nature of your presentation, clearly segment the different topics you will be discussing, and then work your way through them one at a time – it’s important for everything to be organised logically for the audience to fully understand. There are many different ways to organise your main points, such as, by priority, theme, chronologically etc.

• Main points should be addressed one by one with supporting evidence and examples.
• Before moving on to the next point you should provide a mini-summary.
• Links should be clearly stated between ideas and you must make it clear when you’re moving onto the next point.
• Allow time for people to take relevant notes and stick to the topics you have prepared beforehand rather than straying too far off topic.

When planning your presentation write a list of main points you want to make and ask yourself “What I am telling the audience? What should they understand from this?” refining your answers this way will help you produce clear messages.

4. Conclusion

In presentations the conclusion is frequently underdeveloped and lacks purpose which is a shame as it’s the best place to reinforce your messages. Typically, your presentation has a specific goal – that could be to convert a number of the audience members into customers, lead to a certain number of enquiries to make people knowledgeable on specific key points, or to motivate them towards a shared goal.

Regardless of what that goal is, be sure to summarise your main points and their implications. This clarifies the overall purpose of your talk and reinforces your reason for being there.

Follow these steps:

• Signal that it’s nearly the end of your presentation, for example, “As we wrap up/as we wind down the talk…”
• Restate the topic and purpose of your presentation – “In this speech I wanted to compare…”
• Summarise the main points, including their implications and conclusions
• Indicate what is next/a call to action/a thought-provoking takeaway
• Move on to the last section

5. Thank the audience and invite questions

Conclude your talk by thanking the audience for their time and invite them to  ask any questions  they may have. As mentioned earlier, personal circumstances will affect the structure of your presentation.

Many presenters prefer to make the Q&A session the key part of their talk and try to speed through the main body of the presentation. This is totally fine, but it is still best to focus on delivering some sort of initial presentation to set the tone and topics for discussion in the Q&A.

Other common presentation structures

The above was a description of a basic presentation, here are some more specific presentation layouts:

Demonstration

Use the demonstration structure when you have something useful to show. This is usually used when you want to show how a product works. Steve Jobs frequently used this technique in his presentations.

• Explain why the product is valuable.
• Describe why the product is necessary.
• Explain what problems it can solve for the audience.
• Demonstrate the product  to support what you’ve been saying.
• Make suggestions of other things it can do to make the audience curious.

Problem-solution

This structure is particularly useful in persuading the audience.

• Briefly frame the issue.
• Go into the issue in detail showing why it ‘s such a problem. Use logos and pathos for this – the logical and emotional appeals.
• Provide the solution and explain why this would also help the audience.
• Call to action – something you want the audience to do which is straightforward and pertinent to the solution.

Storytelling

As well as incorporating  stories in your presentation , you can organise your whole presentation as a story. There are lots of different type of story structures you can use – a popular choice is the monomyth – the hero’s journey. In a monomyth, a hero goes on a difficult journey or takes on a challenge – they move from the familiar into the unknown. After facing obstacles and ultimately succeeding the hero returns home, transformed and with newfound wisdom.

Storytelling for Business Success  webinar , where well-know storyteller Javier Bernad shares strategies for crafting compelling narratives.

Another popular choice for using a story to structure your presentation is in media ras (in the middle of thing). In this type of story you launch right into the action by providing a snippet/teaser of what’s happening and then you start explaining the events that led to that event. This is engaging because you’re starting your story at the most exciting part which will make the audience curious – they’ll want to know how you got there.

• Great storytelling: Examples from Alibaba Founder, Jack Ma

Remaining method

The remaining method structure is good for situations where you’re presenting your perspective on a controversial topic which has split people’s opinions.

• Go into the issue in detail showing why it’s such a problem – use logos and pathos.
• Rebut your opponents’ solutions  – explain why their solutions could be useful because the audience will see this as fair and will therefore think you’re trustworthy, and then explain why you think these solutions are not valid.
• After you’ve presented all the alternatives provide your solution, the remaining solution. This is very persuasive because it looks like the winning idea, especially with the audience believing that you’re fair and trustworthy.

Transitions

When delivering presentations it’s important for your words and ideas to flow so your audience can understand how everything links together and why it’s all relevant. This can be done  using speech transitions  which are words and phrases that allow you to smoothly move from one point to another so that your speech flows and your presentation is unified.

Transitions can be one word, a phrase or a full sentence – there are many different forms, here are some examples:

Moving from the introduction to the first point

Signify to the audience that you will now begin discussing the first main point:

• Now that you’re aware of the overview, let’s begin with…
• First, let’s begin with…
• I will first cover…
• My first point covers…
• To get started, let’s look at…

Shifting between similar points

Move from one point to a similar one:

• In the same way…
• Likewise…
• Equally…
• This is similar to…
• Similarly…

Internal summaries

Internal summarising consists of summarising before moving on to the next point. You must inform the audience:

• What part of the presentation you covered – “In the first part of this speech we’ve covered…”
• What the key points were – “Precisely how…”
• How this links in with the overall presentation – “So that’s the context…”
• What you’re moving on to – “Now I’d like to move on to the second part of presentation which looks at…”

Physical movement

You can move your body and your standing location when you transition to another point. The audience find it easier to follow your presentation and movement will increase their interest.

A common technique for incorporating movement into your presentation is to:

• Start your introduction by standing in the centre of the stage.
• For your first point you stand on the left side of the stage.
• You discuss your second point from the centre again.
• You stand on the right side of the stage for your third point.
• The conclusion occurs in the centre.

Key slides for your presentation

Slides are a useful tool for most presentations: they can greatly assist in the delivery of your message and help the audience follow along with what you are saying. Key slides include:

• An intro slide outlining your ideas
• A  summary slide  with core points to remember
• High quality image slides to supplement what you are saying

There are some presenters who choose not to use slides at all, though this is more of a rarity. Slides can be a powerful tool if used properly, but the problem is that many fail to do just that. Here are some golden rules to follow when using slides in a presentation:

• Don’t over fill them  – your slides are there to assist your speech, rather than be the focal point. They should have as little information as possible, to avoid distracting people from your talk.
• A picture says a thousand words  – instead of filling a slide with text, instead, focus on one or two images or diagrams to help support and explain the point you are discussing at that time.
• Make them readable  – depending on the size of your audience, some may not be able to see small text or images, so make everything large enough to fill the space.
• Don’t rush through slides  – give the audience enough time to digest each slide.

Guy Kawasaki, an entrepreneur and author, suggests that slideshows should follow a  10-20-30 rule :

• There should be a maximum of 10 slides – people rarely remember more than one concept afterwards so there’s no point overwhelming them with unnecessary information.
• The presentation should last no longer than 20 minutes as this will leave time for questions and discussion.
• The font size should be a minimum of 30pt because the audience reads faster than you talk so less information on the slides means that there is less chance of the audience being distracted.

Here are some additional resources for slide design:

• 7 design tips for effective, beautiful PowerPoint presentations
• 11 design tips for beautiful presentations
• 10 tips on how to make slides that communicate your idea

Group Presentations

Group presentations are structured in the same way as presentations with one speaker but usually require more rehearsal and practices.  Clean transitioning between speakers  is very important in producing a presentation that flows well. One way of doing this consists of:

• Briefly recap on what you covered in your section: “So that was a brief introduction on what health anxiety is and how it can affect somebody”
• Introduce the next speaker in the team and explain what they will discuss: “Now Elnaz will talk about the prevalence of health anxiety.”
• Then end by looking at the next speaker, gesturing towards them and saying their name: “Elnaz”.
• The next speaker should acknowledge this with a quick: “Thank you Joe.”

From this example you can see how the different sections of the presentations link which makes it easier for the audience to follow and remain engaged.

Example of great presentation structure and delivery

Having examples of great presentations will help inspire your own structures, here are a few such examples, each unique and inspiring in their own way.

How Google Works – by Eric Schmidt

This presentation by ex-Google CEO  Eric Schmidt  demonstrates some of the most important lessons he and his team have learnt with regards to working with some of the most talented individuals they hired. The simplistic yet cohesive style of all of the slides is something to be appreciated. They are relatively straightforward, yet add power and clarity to the narrative of the presentation.

Start with why – by Simon Sinek

Since being released in 2009, this presentation has been viewed almost four million times all around the world. The message itself is very powerful, however, it’s not an idea that hasn’t been heard before. What makes this presentation so powerful is the simple message he is getting across, and the straightforward and understandable manner in which he delivers it. Also note that he doesn’t use any slides, just a whiteboard where he creates a simple diagram of his opinion.

The Wisdom of a Third Grade Dropout – by Rick Rigsby

Here’s an example of a presentation given by a relatively unknown individual looking to inspire the next generation of graduates. Rick’s presentation is unique in many ways compared to the two above. Notably, he uses no visual prompts and includes a great deal of humour.

However, what is similar is the structure he uses. He first introduces his message that the wisest man he knew was a third-grade dropout. He then proceeds to deliver his main body of argument, and in the end, concludes with his message. This powerful speech keeps the viewer engaged throughout, through a mixture of heart-warming sentiment, powerful life advice and engaging humour.

As you can see from the examples above, and as it has been expressed throughout, a great presentation structure means analysing the core message of your presentation. Decide on a key message you want to impart the audience with, and then craft an engaging way of delivering it.

By preparing a solid structure, and  practising your talk  beforehand, you can walk into the presentation with confidence and deliver a meaningful message to an interested audience.

It’s important for a presentation to be well-structured so it can have the most impact on your audience. An unstructured presentation can be difficult to follow and even frustrating to listen to. The heart of your speech are your main points supported by evidence and your transitions should assist the movement between points and clarify how everything is linked.

Research suggests that the audience remember the first and last things you say so your introduction and conclusion are vital for reinforcing your points. Essentially, ensure you spend the time structuring your presentation and addressing all of the sections.

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How to Give a Killer Presentation

• Chris Anderson

For more than 30 years, the TED conference series has presented enlightening talks that people enjoy watching. In this article, Anderson, TED’s curator, shares five keys to great presentations:

• Frame your story (figure out where to start and where to end).
• Plan your delivery (decide whether to memorize your speech word for word or develop bullet points and then rehearse it—over and over).
• Work on stage presence (but remember that your story matters more than how you stand or whether you’re visibly nervous).
• Plan the multimedia (whatever you do, don’t read from PowerPoint slides).
• Put it together (play to your strengths and be authentic).

According to Anderson, presentations rise or fall on the quality of the idea, the narrative, and the passion of the speaker. It’s about substance—not style. In fact, it’s fairly easy to “coach out” the problems in a talk, but there’s no way to “coach in” the basic story—the presenter has to have the raw material. So if your thinking is not there yet, he advises, decline that invitation to speak. Instead, keep working until you have an idea that’s worth sharing.

Lessons from TED

A little more than a year ago, on a trip to Nairobi, Kenya, some colleagues and I met a 12-year-old Masai boy named Richard Turere, who told us a fascinating story. His family raises livestock on the edge of a vast national park, and one of the biggest challenges is protecting the animals from lions—especially at night. Richard had noticed that placing lamps in a field didn’t deter lion attacks, but when he walked the field with a torch, the lions stayed away. From a young age, he’d been interested in electronics, teaching himself by, for example, taking apart his parents’ radio. He used that experience to devise a system of lights that would turn on and off in sequence—using solar panels, a car battery, and a motorcycle indicator box—and thereby create a sense of movement that he hoped would scare off the lions. He installed the lights, and the lions stopped attacking. Soon villages elsewhere in Kenya began installing Richard’s “lion lights.”

• CA Chris Anderson is the curator of TED.

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How to Start a Presentation: 12 Ways to Keep Your Audience Hooked

Written by: Nayomi Chibana

Wondering how to start a presentation that makes your audience sit up in their seats with excitement?

"Today, you will learn something that will add 10 years to your life."

"20 years from now, your job won't exist."

"Did you know that more people have access to a mobile phone than a toilet?"

Presentation starters like these are key to grabbing your audience's attention and making the most of the time allotted to you.

Instead of thanking the audience, making an unrelated joke or apologizing for a technical issue, why not dive right into the subject matter with a gripping statement or thought-provoking question?

To help you craft your own killer presentation starters, we've sorted through some of the most popular TED talks in history and created this list of the most effective ways to start your next presentation .

Many of these presentation starters are successful because they appeal to human emotions such as curiosity, awe, surprise or fear. You can read more on creating viral content that triggers emotional responses in this post .

Better yet, check out the video version of this blog post. This video distills 12 killer strategies to start your presentation and keep the audience's attention throughout.

• Knowing how to start a presentation is crucial because it sets the tone for the rest of the presentation. A strong and engaging opening can capture the audience's attention and generate interest in your presentation.
• There are many ways to start a presentation: make a provocative statement, incite curiosity; shock the audience; tell a story, be authentic;  quote a famous or influential person.
• Here are other presentation opening strategies: Begin with a captivating visual; ask a question; use silence; start with a prop; tell a relevant joke; use the word "imagine.
• Take advantage of Visme's free online presentation software to create attention-grabbing presentations that align with your branding and engage your audience.
• If you're short on time, tap into the power of Visme's AI presentation maker to create stunning presentations in minutes. Simply describe what you want to create, select your preferred design option and let the tool do the heavy lifting.

How to Start a Presentation

Knowing how to start a presentation is just as crucial as the message you're trying to convey. If you can't start it effectively, you might not be able to leave a strong enough impact by the end of it.

TED speakers are some of the best presenters in the world, and there's a lot you can learn from their talks. Below, we've handpicked some of these presentations that start with a bang and manage to keep the audience hooked till the very end.

1 Make a provocative statement.

"I want to discuss with you this afternoon why you're going to fail to have a great career."

One surefire way to get your audience's attention is to make a provocative statement that creates interest and a keen desire to know more about what you have to say.

The presentation above, for example, does just that by making a surprising first statement that inspires surprise, amusement, curiosity and fear at the same time.

With 4.8 million views and counting, this talk by an economics professor draws you in precisely because it steers clear of the traditional talk, using blunt humor to enumerate all the irrational excuses people make for not pursuing their dreams and passions.

2 Incite curiosity.

"I need to make a confession at the outset here. A little over 20 years ago, I did something that I regret, something that I'm not particularly proud of. Something that, in many ways, I wish no one would ever know, but here I feel kind of obliged to reveal."

Another way to grab your audience by the collar is to incite curiosity. In this popular TED talk viewed over 15.4 million times, career analyst Dan Pink succeeds at getting the entire audience to look at him intently, waiting for his next word, by resorting to an opening statement that builds suspense.

Since human beings are by nature curious creatures, most people in the audience were probably asking themselves "What did he do?" and imagining all sorts of possible scenarios.

3 Shock the audience.

"You will live seven and a half minutes longer than you would have otherwise, just because you watched this talk."

In many ways related to the previous two presentation starters, this hook involves making a counter-intuitive or paradigm-shifting statement that goes against a popular belief or simply shocks due to the perceived impossibility of the proposed statement.

This introduction by game designer Jane McGonigal, for example, achieves a level of surprise by making a seemingly improbable assertion. After hearing this kind of statement, most people will want to listen to your entire talk, if not out of genuine interest, then at least for the sake of pacifying their incredulity.

(By the way, she makes good on her promise by revealing a game she designed to boost resilience, which is backed by scientific research.)

4 Tell a story.

"When I was seven years old and my sister was just five years old, we were playing on top of a bunk bed..."

As covered in a previous post , storytelling is the key ingredient that separates good, engaging presentations from bad ones that lack a clear message and persuasive delivery.

In his popular talk on the secret to being more productive, psychologist Shawn Achor tells a childhood story to lead into the effectiveness of positive psychology. He then goes on to provide concrete evidence backing his claim that pursuing happiness, rather than productivity for its own sake, actually makes you more--not less--productive.

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5  Be authentic.

"I'm going to tell you a little bit about my TEDxHouston Talk. I woke up the morning after I gave that talk with the worst vulnerability hangover of my life. And I actually didn't leave my house for about three days."

Another way to draw your audience into your own world is to tell a revealing personal story. This is certainly not easy but, when done right, can quickly spark interest in your topic and build an emotional connection between you and your audience.

In Brene Brown's talk on confronting shame, she begins by admitting that she felt embarrassed over the revelations she had made in her massively popular TED talk on embracing vulnerability.

6 Quote an influential person.

One of the easiest ways to start a presentation is to quote an influential person. In these cases, it's best to use a pithy, short and relevant quote to catch your audience's attention.

In the widely viewed video above, for example, writer Andrew Solomon quotes Emily Dickinson to begin his talk on depression, an illness he asserts affects many more people than the official figures suggest.

The quote is particularly powerful and effective because it eloquently describes the state of depression from the point of view of a person who is feeling all the emotions associated with it.

7 Begin with a captivating visual.

To introduce this fascinating TED talk on how movements really get started, entrepreneur Derek Sivers uses some surprising footage to support his statements. They are especially captivating because they debunk widely held beliefs on the matter, proving that it takes more than just a charismatic leader to start a revolution of any sort.

8 Ask a question.

"Do you think it's possible to control someone's attention? Even more than that, what about predicting human behavior?"

In this attention-grabbing presentation on the flaws in human perception, world-famous pickpocket Apollo Robbins starts off by asking the audience a question that leads right into the meat of his talk, which has been viewed worldwide more than 10.5 million times.

In these cases, it's best to pose a question that will really get your audience thinking and, in the best possible scenario, challenge their prevailing beliefs or preconceptions on a certain topic.

51 Best Presentation Slides for Engaging Presentations (2024)

9 Use silence.

Another effective technique--which should only be used if you're a seasoned presenter and are able to maintain your composure throughout--is to leverage silence to command a room.

Watch, for example, how musician Amanda Palmer starts off her talk by not saying a word, simply breathing in and out and using props to communicate her message.

Although you may not want to resort to both silence and using a prop in your presentation, this is a very effective dramatic technique that, if done right, quickly draws all eyes to you.

10 Start with a prop.

Considering that the audience's gaze is attracted by motion and visual objects, another way to hook them right from the outset is to use a prop.

Take a look at how best-selling author Susan Cain uses a physical object to visually complement her opening story on her first summer camp experience. It not only adds a dramatic effect, it also keeps viewers eyes on her while on stage.

11 Tell a relevant joke.

"Okay, now I don't want to alarm anybody in this room, but it's just come to my attention that the person to your right is a liar."

Humor is not only a good way to break the ice and endear the audience to you right from the outset, it can also be very effective in getting your point across if it's relevant to your talk.

Lie detector Pamela Meyer, for example, deftly uses both humor and an element of surprise in her opening statement as she tells the audience that the person to their right is probably a liar. This gets the audience to laugh and then focus on her topic at the same time.

She goes on to give some shocking statistics (such as that on any given day, we're lied to up to 200 times) and delivers an intriguing talk that has been seen close to 13 million times.

12 Use the word "imagine."

"Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary."

Lastly, there are times when leading your audience to use their imaginations is the best bet. You can prompt them to do this by using the commands "imagine," "think of" or "picture this." These are just a few of the most powerful opening words for presentation.

Plane crash survivor Ric Elias, for example, uses this technique in the video above to quickly thrust his audience into the central scene of his harrowing story.

Learn How to Start a Presentation Effectively

What about your next presentation? Have you thought about how you're going to set the mood for your talk? We've rounded up some of the best way to start a presentation.

When you're ready to get started creating your presentation, give Visme's presentation software a try! The tool comes with an AI writer that helps you generate killer content for your next presentation in seconds.

Plus, check out our post on how to end a presentation so you both start and end your speech with a bang.

And if you want to learn all our secrets on how to deliver an unforgettable presentation, as well as how to create visual slides with impact, grab our free e-book below.

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About the Author

Nayomi Chibana is a journalist and writer for Visme’s Visual Learning Center. Besides researching trends in visual communication and next-generation storytelling, she’s passionate about data-driven content.

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How to give a good presentation that captivates any audience

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What are the main difficulties when giving presentations?

How to create an effective presentation, after that, how do i give a memorable presentation, how to connect with the audience when presenting.

If you’ve ever heard someone give a powerful presentation, you probably remember how it made you feel. Much like a composer, a good speaker knows precisely when each note should strike to captivate their audience’s attention and leave them with a lasting impression.

No one becomes a great public speaker or presenter without practice. And almost everyone can recall a time one of their presentations went badly — that’s a painful part of the learning process.

Whether you’re working within a small creative team or a large organization, public speaking and presentation skills are vital to communicating your ideas. Knowing how to present your vision can help you pitch concepts to clients, present ideas to your team, and develop the confidence to participate in team meetings.

If you have an upcoming presentation on the horizon and feel nervous, that’s normal. Around 15-30% of the general population experience a fear of public speaking . And, unfortunately, social anxiety is on the rise, with a 12% increase in adults over the last 20 years . 

Learning how to give a good presentation can dismantle your fears and break down these barriers, ensuring you’re ready to confidently share your point of view. 

It’s the week before your presentation, and you’re already feeling nervous . Maybe there’ll be an important mentor in the room you need to impress, or you’re looking for an opportunity to show your boss your value. Regardless of your countless past presentations, you still feel nervous. 

Sharing your vision and ideas with any sized group is intimidating. You’re likely worrying about how you’ll perform as a presenter and whether the audience will be interested in what you offer. But nerves aren’t inherently negative — you can actually use this feeling to fuel your preparation.

It’s helpful to identify where your worries are coming from and address your fears. Here are some common concerns when preparing for an upcoming presentation:

Fear of public speaking: When you share your ideas in front of a group, you’re placing yourself in a vulnerable position to be critiqued on your knowledge and communication skills . Maybe you feel confident in your content, but when you think about standing in front of an audience, you feel anxious and your mind goes blank.

It’s also not uncommon to have physical symptoms when presenting . Some people experience nausea and dizziness as the brain releases adrenaline to cope with the potentially stressful situation . Remember to take deep breaths to recenter yourself and be patient, even if you make a mistake.

Losing the audience’s attention: As a presenter, your main focus is to keep your audience engaged. They should feel like they’re learning valuable information or following a story that will improve them in life or business.

Highlight the most exciting pieces of knowledge and ensure you emphasize those points in your presentation. If you feel passionate about your content, it’s more likely that your audience will experience this excitement for themselves and become invested in what you have to say.

Not knowing what content to place on presentation slides: Overloading presentation slides is a fast way to lose your audience’s attention. Your slides should contain only the main talking points and limited text to ensure your audience focuses on what you have to say rather than becoming distracted by the content on your slides.

Discomfort incorporating nonverbal communication: It’s natural to feel stiff and frozen when you’re nervous. But maintaining effective body language helps your audience stay focused on you as you speak and encourages you to relax.

If you struggle to incorporate body language into your presentations, try starting small by making hand gestures toward your slides. If you’re working with a large audience, use different parts of the stage to ensure everyone feels included. 

Each presenter has their own personal brand and style. Some may use humor to break the ice, while others might appeal to the audience’s emotional side through inspiring storytelling. 

Watching online presentations, such as TED talks, is an excellent way to expose yourself to various presentation styles and develop your own. While observing others, you can note how they carry themselves on stage and learn new ways to keep your audience engaged.

Once you’ve addressed what’s causing your fears, it’s time to prepare for a great presentation. Use your past experience as inspiration and aim to outshine your former self by learning from your mistakes and employing new techniques. Here are five presentation tips to help you create a strong presentation and wow your audience:

1. Keep it simple

Simple means something different to everyone.

Before creating your presentation, take note of your intended audience and their knowledge level of your subject. You’ll want your content to be easy for your intended audience to follow.

Say you’re giving a presentation on improving your company’s operational structure. Entry-level workers will likely need a more straightforward overview of the content than C-suite leaders, who have significantly more experience. 

Ask yourself what you want your audience to take away from your presentation and emphasize those important points. Doing this ensures they remember the most vital information rather than less important supporting ideas. Try organizing these concepts into bullet points so viewers can quickly identify critical takeaways.

2. Create a compelling structure

Put yourself in your audience member’s shoes and determine the most compelling way to organize your information. Your presentation should be articulate , cohesive, and logical, and you must be sure to include all necessary supporting evidence to strengthen your main points.

If you give away all of your answers too quickly, your audience could lose interest. And if there isn’t enough supporting information, they could hit a roadblock of confusion. Try developing a compelling story that leads your audience through your thought processes so they can experience the ups and downs alongside you. 

By structuring your presentation to lead up to a final conclusion, you’re more likely to keep listeners’ attention. Once you’ve reached that conclusion, you can offer a Q&A period to put any of their questions or concerns to rest. 

3. Use visual aids

Appealing to various learning styles is a great way to keep everyone on the same page and ensure they absorb your content. Visual aids are necessary for visual learners and make it easier for people to picture your ideas.

Aim to incorporate a mixture of photos, videos, and props to engage your audience and convey your key points. For instance, if you’re giving a presentation on anthropology subject matter, you could show your audience an artifact to help them understand how exciting a discovery must have been. 

If your presentation is long, including a video for your audience to watch is an excellent way to give yourself a break and create new jumping-off points for your speech.

4. Be aware of design techniques and trends

Thanks to cutting-edge technology and tools, you have numerous platforms at your disposal to create a good presentation. But keep in mind that although color, images, and graphics liven things up, they can cause distraction when misused.

  Here are a few standard pointers for incorporating visuals on your slides: 

• Don’t place blocks of small text on a single slide
• Use a minimalistic background instead of a busy one
• Ensure text stands out against the background color
• Only use high-resolution photos
• Maintain a consistent font style and size throughout the presentation
• Don’t overuse transitions and effects

5. Try the 10-20-30 rule

Guy Kawasaki, a prominent venture capitalist and one of the original marketing specialists for Apple, said that the best slideshow presentations are less than 10 slides , last at most 20 minutes, and use a font size of 30. Following this strategy can help you condense your information, eliminate unnecessary ideas, and maintain your audience’s focus more efficiently.

Once you’re confident in creating a memorable presentation, it’s time to learn how to give one. Here are some valuable tips for keeping your audience invested during your talk: 

Tip #1: Tell stories

Sharing an anecdote from your life can improve your credibility and increase your relatability. And when an audience relates to you, they’re more likely to feel connected to who you are as a person and encouraged to give you their full attention, as they would want others to do the same.

Gill Hicks utilized this strategy well when she shared her powerful story, “ I survived a terrorist attack. Here’s what I learned .” In her harrowing tale, Hicks highlights the importance of compassion, unconditional love , and helping those in need.

If you feel uncomfortable sharing personal stories, that’s okay. You can use examples from famous individuals or create a fictional account to demonstrate your ideas.

Tip #2: Make eye contact with the audience

Maintaining eye contact is less intimidating than it sounds. In fact, you don’t have to look your audience members directly in their eyes — you can focus on their foreheads or noses if that’s easier.

Try making eye contact with as many people as possible for 3–5 seconds each. This timing ensures you don’t look away too quickly, making the audience member feel unimportant, or linger too long, making them feel uncomfortable.

If you’re presenting to a large group, direct your focus to each part of the room to ensure no section of the audience feels ignored. 

Tip #3: Work on your stage presence

Although your tone and words are the most impactful part of your presentation, recall that body language keeps your audience engaged. Use these tips to master a professional stage presence:

• Speak with open arms and avoid crossing them
• Keep a reasonable pace and try not to stand still
• Use hand gestures to highlight important information

Tip #4: Start strong

Like watching a movie trailer, the first seconds of your talk are critical for capturing your audience’s attention. How you start your speech sets the tone for the rest of your presentation and tells your audience whether or not they should pay attention. Here are some ways to start your presentation to leave a lasting impression:

• Use a quote from a well-known and likable influential person 
• Ask a rhetorical question to create intrigue
• Start with an anecdote to add context to your talk 
• Spark your audience’s curiosity by involving them in an interactive problem-solving puzzle or riddle

Tip #5: Show your passion

Don’t be afraid of being too enthusiastic. Everyone appreciates a speaker who’s genuinely excited about their field of expertise. 

In “ Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance ,” Angela Lee Duckworth discusses the importance of passion in research and delivery. She delivers her presentation excitedly to show the audience how excitement piques interest. 

Tip #6: Plan your delivery

How you decide to deliver your speech will shape your presentation. Will you be preparing a PowerPoint presentation and using a teleprompter? Or are you working within the constraints of the digital world and presenting over Zoom?

The best presentations are conducted by speakers who know their stuff and memorize their content. However, if you find this challenging, try creating notes to use as a safety net in case you lose track.

If you’re presenting online, you can keep notes beside your computer for each slide, highlighting your key points. This ensures you include all the necessary information and follow a logical order.

Tip #7: Practice

Practice doesn’t make perfect — it makes progress. There’s no way of preparing for unforeseen circumstances, but thorough practice means you’ve done everything you can to succeed.

Rehearse your speech in front of a mirror or to a trusted friend or family member. Take any feedback and use it as an opportunity to fine-tune your speech. But remember: who you practice your presentation in front of may differ from your intended audience. Consider their opinions through the lens of them occupying this different position.

Tip #8: Read the room

Whether you’re a keynote speaker at an event or presenting to a small group of clients, knowing how to read the room is vital for keeping your audience happy. Stay flexible and be willing to move on from topics quickly if your listeners are uninterested or displeased with a particular part of your speech.

Tip #9: Breathe

Try taking deep breaths before your presentation to calm your nerves. If you feel rushed, you’re more likely to feel nervous and stumble on your words.

The most important thing to consider when presenting is your audience’s feelings. When you approach your next presentation calmly, you’ll put your audience at ease and encourage them to feel comfortable in your presence.

Tip #10: Provide a call-to-action

When you end your presentation, your audience should feel compelled to take a specific action, whether that’s changing their habits or contacting you for your services.

If you’re presenting to clients, create a handout with key points and contact information so they can get in touch. You should provide your LinkedIn information, email address, and phone number so they have a variety of ways to reach you. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all template for an effective presentation, as your unique audience and subject matter play a role in shaping your speech. As a general rule, though, you should aim to connect with your audience through passion and excitement. Use strong eye contact and body language. Capture their interest through storytelling and their trust through relatability.

Learning how to give a good presentation can feel overwhelming — but remember, practice makes progress. Rehearse your presentation for someone you trust, collect their feedback , and revise. Practicing your presentation skills is helpful for any job, and every challenge is a chance to grow.

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

How to write a speech that your audience remembers

6 presentation skills and how to improve them, 3 stand-out professional bio examples to inspire your own, tell a story they can't ignore these 10 tips will teach you how, how to make a presentation interactive and exciting, your guide to what storytelling is and how to be a good storyteller, reading the room gives you an edge — no matter who you're talking to, 18 effective strategies to improve your communication skills, writing an elevator pitch about yourself: a how-to plus tips, how to disagree at work without being obnoxious, the importance of good speech: 5 tips to be more articulate, the 11 tips that will improve your public speaking skills, 30 presentation feedback examples, fear of public speaking overcome it with these 7 tips, how to not be nervous for a presentation — 13 tips that work (really), 8 clever hooks for presentations (with tips), stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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How to Plan, Organize, and Manage a Successful Seminar: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Seminars are integral to academic life, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and professional growth. Whether you're a student, academic, or industry professional, attending a seminar can be a rewarding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will not only walk you through the steps of planning and executing a successful seminar but also explore the core elements of a seminar, how attendees participate, and the techniques used to foster an engaging learning environment.

What is a Seminar?

A seminar is an interactive event where experts, researchers, or industry professionals gather to present and discuss their ideas, research findings, and experiences within a specific subject area. It typically involves presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and opportunities for networking and collaboration. Seminars can focus on various topics, from academic research to industry trends, and are usually organized around a central theme.

Participation and Interaction in Seminars

Unlike traditional lectures, seminars encourage active participation and interaction among attendees. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussions, ask questions, and share their thoughts. This two-way exchange of ideas creates a dynamic learning environment and enhances the overall learning experience.

Techniques Used in Seminars

To foster an engaging learning environment, various techniques are used in seminars. Some common techniques include:

Panel Discussions

Panels are an essential aspect of seminars, offering a platform for in-depth discussions and diverse perspectives on specific topics. Typically, a panel consists of a group of experts or professionals in the field, each providing insights and analysis. The moderator plays a crucial role in guiding the conversation and ensuring that the discussion remains focused and engaging. Panels are highly interactive, allowing audience members to pose questions and share their views, promoting a dynamic exchange of ideas. To make panels more effective, it's essential to curate a diverse set of panelists with contrasting viewpoints, enabling attendees to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Panels are especially valuable for shedding light on complex issues, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering meaningful dialogues among participants. As an attendee, participating in panel discussions provides an excellent opportunity to engage directly with industry experts, expand your knowledge, and network with like-minded individuals. For organizers, creating well-balanced and engaging panels can significantly enhance the overall seminar experience, leaving a lasting impact on participants.

Workshops are an integral part of seminar organization, offering a more hands-on and interactive learning experience. Unlike traditional lectures, workshops focus on active participation and skill-building. They are typically led by experienced facilitators or subject matter experts who guide attendees through practical exercises and activities. Workshops provide a unique opportunity for participants to delve into specific topics, hone their skills, and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. These sessions can range from small group discussions to immersive training sessions, depending on the seminar's objectives. One of the key benefits of workshops is the opportunity for attendees to engage in problem-solving, collaborate with peers, and receive immediate feedback from facilitators. As an organizer, ensuring that workshops are well-structured, relevant, and align with the overall theme of the seminar is crucial. By offering diverse and skill-enhancing workshops, seminar organizers can create a dynamic and enriched learning environment, leaving attendees with practical takeaways and a memorable learning experience.

Group Activities

Group activities are another essential component of a successful seminar, fostering teamwork, collaboration, and networking among participants. These activities aim to break the ice, encourage interaction, and promote a sense of camaraderie among attendees. Depending on the seminar's nature and objectives, group activities can vary widely, from icebreaker games and team-building exercises to group discussions and brainstorming sessions. The key is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their ideas and engaging with others. Group activities not only enhance the overall learning experience but also provide valuable opportunities for attendees to expand their professional networks. As an organizer, incorporating well-designed group activities can add a sense of excitement and fun to the seminar, making it more enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved. By carefully selecting activities that align with the seminar's goals and themes, organizers can ensure that participants leave the event with new connections, fresh perspectives, and a renewed enthusiasm for their academic or professional pursuits.

Q&A Sessions

Q&A sessions are a fundamental element of seminars that allow participants to engage in direct and interactive discussions with speakers or panelists. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity for attendees to seek clarification, share their insights, and delve deeper into the topics presented during the seminar. Q&A sessions are typically scheduled after each presentation or panel discussion, allowing the audience to ask questions related to the content or express their viewpoints.

To make Q&A sessions effective and inclusive, it's crucial for organizers to set clear guidelines and encourage active participation from the audience. Moderators play a vital role in managing the session, ensuring that questions are relevant and respectful, and giving everyone a chance to contribute. Additionally, utilizing technology such as audience response systems or online platforms can facilitate smooth communication and help manage the flow of questions.

Q&A sessions offer an opportunity for speakers and panelists to showcase their expertise, engage with the audience on a personal level, and address any lingering doubts or concerns. From the attendees' perspective, these sessions provide a chance to gain deeper insights, explore different perspectives, and enrich their understanding of the seminar's subject matter.

To enhance the success of Q&A sessions, organizers can encourage participants to submit questions in advance or use real-time polling to identify the most popular topics for discussion. By fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, Q&A sessions can become a dynamic part of the seminar, sparking thought-provoking discussions and creating lasting impressions for all involved.

Interactive Presentations

Interactive presentations are a dynamic and engaging approach to delivering seminar content. Unlike traditional one-way lectures, interactive presentations encourage active participation from the audience, making the learning experience more immersive and memorable. Various techniques can be incorporated into interactive presentations to stimulate audience involvement and foster meaningful interactions.

One popular method is the use of multimedia elements such as videos, images, and audio clips to enhance the presentation's visual appeal and reinforce key points. This approach captivates attendees' attention and ensures a multi-sensory experience, making the content more accessible and easier to comprehend.

Another effective technique is incorporating audience polling or live quizzes during the presentation. This not only keeps participants engaged but also provides instant feedback to presenters, enabling them to tailor the discussion to the audience's interests and understanding level.

Gamification is another innovative approach to creating interactive presentations. By introducing gamified elements like quizzes, challenges, or group activities, the seminar becomes not only educational but also fun and enjoyable. This approach encourages healthy competition among attendees and motivates them to actively participate.

Additionally, interactive presentations can involve breakout sessions where attendees split into smaller groups to discuss specific topics or case studies. This allows for in-depth exploration of ideas and encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants.

The benefits of interactive presentations are manifold. They foster a sense of inclusivity, as participants feel their opinions are valued and heard. The dynamic nature of these presentations helps maintain audience engagement throughout the seminar, leading to better knowledge retention and a more impactful learning experience.

Planning Your Seminar

✔︎ define your objectives.

Clearly outline the goals and objectives of your seminar. Consider the target audience, theme, and desired outcomes.

✔︎ Choose the Right Venue

Select a venue that can accommodate the number of attendees and offers the necessary facilities, such as audio-visual equipment and Wi-Fi.

✔︎ Invite Engaging Speakers

Attract knowledgeable and influential speakers who can add value to your seminar and spark meaningful discussions.

✔︎ Create an Engaging Agenda

Craft a well-balanced agenda with diverse sessions that cater to the interests of your participants.

✔︎ Implement Effective Marketing

Utilize digital platforms and strategic partnerships to promote your seminar and attract the right audience.

Managing Your Seminar

✔︎ facilitate networking.

Encourage networking opportunities during breaks and networking events to foster meaningful connections among participants.

✔︎ Ensure Smooth Logistics

Thoroughly plan event logistics, including accommodation options, catering, and onsite management.

✔︎ Foster Interaction

Encourage active participation through Q&A sessions, interactive presentations, and group activities.

✔︎ Gather Feedback

Request feedback from participants to evaluate the success of your seminar and identify areas for improvement.

A well-organized seminar provides a platform for participants to engage, learn, and collaborate within their field of interest. By understanding the core elements of a seminar, implementing interactive techniques, and facilitating meaningful networking, you can create a successful and impactful event. Whether you're a seminar organizer or attendee, embracing the spirit of knowledge sharing and collaboration will ensure a rewarding seminar experience for all involved. So, start planning your next seminar today and unlock its potential for growth and innovation in your field.

If you are interested in learning more about the academic event types you can also check our blog post article " Unraveling the Academic Event Landscape: Congresses vs. Conferences - What Sets Them Apart? "

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A Complete Guide On How To Prepare To Host A Seminar

Posted by Chinny Verana on Friday, May 26th, 2023

Hosting a seminar is one effective way to contribute value to your audience or community. Preparing well for a seminar might be tedious but it will be worth the effort because the long-term results for your brand are great. It is one way to establish credibility and build brand awareness in your field. Seminars are great avenues to deliver value to your audience. 

Aside from building your presence with your audience, seminars are a great avenue for networking which audiences generally look forward to. People usually long for connection so being able to connect with colleagues in the industry and having an opportunity to expand business networks is usually a convincing factor for attendees to participate in a seminar. For event organizers, the audience of a seminar is usually considered as leads for conversion or for building a community. 

In this article, we will give a complete guide on everything you need to know plus additional tips on how to prepare a seminar. 

Article Outline

1. Determine seminar goals and objectives

2. set measurables indicators for a successful seminar, 3. choose a seminar topic and format, 4. determine seminar logistics like venue, platform, and event ticketing, 5. reach out to potential sponsors, 6. promote your seminar, 7. prepare for the seminar program, 8. conducting the seminar, 8. follow-up and evaluation, preparation checklist for your seminar, additional tips in preparing for your seminar, host your seminar with event espresso , step-by-step process of preparing for your seminar.

As with every event, the organizing team should clearly define the goal and objective of organizing. They should communicate the seminar goals and objectives among the whole event organizing team. If you’re organizing a fundraiser, clearly define the amount you need to raise and what it’s for. If you’re organizing a seminar, determine the specific outcome you want to achieve after the event. Some examples of goals and objectives are: to provide awareness of a certain product or service, provide training and professional development services, gather feedback or insights on the market, etc. 

Setting a seminar goal and objective is not enough to ensure a successful seminar. Certain measurable indicators must be set as a basis to evaluate post-event success. For example, what measurable outcome must be hit for the seminar to be considered successful? What does success look like (KPIs), e.g.: 

• A certain Net Promoter Score?
• Attendance numbers or rate?
• A number of sales?
•  Number of students enrolled in a course?

Hitting these goals can help set your targets and tactics for future seminars.

The next step to preparing your seminar is choosing a topic. Your topic is important in determining how attractive your seminar will be for your potential attendees. Research relevant topics that can also be relevant to the industry you’re serving. One good way to determine what’s trending is by browsing through discussion forums or feeds on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, and Quora. By getting a pulse of what they’re talking about, event organizers can craft a program with engaging talking points relevant to the audience. 

The format of a seminar can vary depending on the objectives and needs of the audience. Seminars are now not only limited by face-to-face events but also virtual or hybrid ones so consider what would your target audience prefer. Most seminars typically include a mix of presentations, discussions, and interactive activities. Presentations can be delivered by one or multiple speakers and can cover a variety of topics related to the theme of the seminar. 

Discussions can be facilitated by a moderator through breakout groups, allowing attendees to share their insights and experiences. Seminars can also be formatted as a virtual roundtable too if a virtual format supports the specific topic well. 

Interactive activities can include hands-on exercises, role-playing, or other activities that allow the audience to apply the information learned during the seminar. Overall, the format of the seminar should be designed to maximize engagement and ensure that attendees leave with a deeper understanding of the topic and the skills needed to apply it in their work or personal life.

Next up is finalizing the date, time, and venue for the seminar. If you’re hosting an event with participants from different states, take note of the date and time that would work best for the different time zones your guests will be attending from. 

With the date and time set, reservations for the venue can be accomplished. If it’s a virtual event, you can start preparing for the event ticket registration process and choosing the web platform you plan to host it on. If it’s a paid event, determine the price per ticket and how it will be sold. 

Event Espresso is a WordPress plug-in solution you can consider with its unlimited ticket-selling feature at a $0 commission fee. It’s a simple, plug-and-play solution with a flat fee containing all the event ticketing solutions event organizers need. For events without a website, you can try Event Smart . 

Depending on the size and goal of your seminar, you can start scouting for potential sponsors . Having sponsors can elevate your event with the support and partnership they can offer. Whether it’s the extra exposure or additional funding, make a good first impression by crafting a good sponsorship proposal . 

Every event organizer dreams of selling out all tickets to their event. This requires going through a detailed event marketing plan and strategy.  

To promote your seminar, start by preparing the needed promotional material that you will be posting on your event website or social media. There are free tools like Canva that can help you in creating custom publication materials regarding your event. A promotional graphic should contain all the basic information your attendee will look for like the name of the event, a short description of the event, date, time, venue, and ticket price. 

An important aspect of promoting your seminar is by publishing your own event page . Having a custom event site builds your credibility as you customize and add social proof, event speaker details, etc. Your own site also allows Search Engine Optimization (SEO) which can boost the visibility of your seminar. 

Finally, you can never go wrong with promoting your event on social media. Start by sharing it with your own circle and having your immediate circle reshare it. Take advantage of the algorithm and create your content in a way that immediately hooks the attention of your audience. Try creating short videos for different platforms and tap on user-generated content or social proof posts for a more authentic type of content. 

To prepare for the seminar program itself, we recommend starting planning at least 6 months before the event. You can start by creating a seminar program flow for your event . Add the time, expected activities per hour, and contact information of people involved to ensure smooth coordination throughout the seminar proper.

During the preparation period, you should also coordinate with your speakers and print seminar materials to use for the event.

One way to keep the audience engaged throughout the program is through the slides or Powerpoint presentation. Use the presentation slide as a compelling visual aid and include prompts like icebreaker questions to start the program with energy. The seminar speaker should practice good presentation skills by keeping the slides short and only including the main key points and engaging the crowd with empathic delivery. 

By this time, you should set up and have your event ticketing registration ready to run. If you have a WordPress website, then selling your tickets and setting up registration won’t be a hassle. Event Espresso offers unlimited ticket selling at $0 commission fees . Enjoy all the features at a simple, flat rate . For those who don’t have a WordPress site, Event Smart allows you to host your own event page and sell unlimited tickets at a $0 commission fee as well. 

To ensure a smooth seminar presentation, event organizers must oversee the whole attendee experience from start to finish. Start by sending an event confirmation email to remind participants of the upcoming seminar.

During the seminar, the organizers should align speakers or moderators on the overall program flow and seminar objectives. They should craft their presentations in an engaging way, citing case studies or real-life examples that participants can remember even after the seminar. The organizers can also utilize a segment where participants can be split into small groups to encourage networking among colleagues.

After the seminar, it’s time to measure the success of your event based on the goals you’ve set in the beginning. If the seminar was an in-person event, you can pass along an evaluation paper or survey form to gather feedback and comments about the event. If the event was an online seminar, you can use your ticket registration platform like Event Espresso or Event Smart to send an email blast to the participants 

Within a week post-event is the time when you send follow-ups. Send materials you have promised during the seminar discussion, or even deliver an additional bonus value item to them to keep your brand top of mind even after their experience with you. Event organizers can use this time to maximize and maintain a long-term relationship with them moving forward, 

To help you how to prepare a seminar, here is a free downloadable preparation checklist for seminar planning that you can use. Feel free to print a copy or share it with someone who is planning a seminar soon. 

Seminar checklist PDF

Part of preparing for a seminar is to make sure you have the right marketing principles to generate buzz for your seminar. 

Here are some tips to consider:

• Build your community – No community is too small. Keep growing and nurturing your community no matter how small. A handful of very loyal audiences can surprise you with amazing results. Imagine 10 people inviting a person each to your seminar. You have added 10 new additional people into your community to nurture and made new people aware of you and your brand.
• Leverage social proof and user-generated content – Good testimonials and feedback would always be a classic way to convince your potential attendees. Don’t be afraid to share authentic user-generated content and behind the scene content. People connect more with authentic content. 
• Review your prepared script with your emcee – Your host or speaker can make or break your event so it’s critical to go through the script and make it interesting. Narrow your script to bullet points with only the main points so the speaker or moderator can focus on conversing with the audience. Build a connection with the attendees by having eye contact and adapting to the pulse of your audience. 
• Double-check your audio – Don’t lose the crowd with audio glitches. Your main avenue to communicate with your seminar participants is through the audio. Experiencing audio difficulties during your event can potentially lose your participants’ interest from the beginning.

Hosting a seminar is ideal with Event Espresso. It offers a user-friendly interface, allowing you to customize event registration forms, set ticket prices, and handle online registrations seamlessly. It also provides robust features like attendee management, event calendars, and payment processing integration. With EventEspresso.com, you can effortlessly handle every aspect of your seminar. This includes sending out invitations to collecting feedback after the event.

Watch a demo of Event Espresso now and start planning for your seminar. 

Filed under Event Planning and tagged How to prepare a seminar , How to host a seminar , Host seminar , Tips in preparing for seminar , Preparation checklist for your seminar , Preparing for seminar

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6 Tips For Giving a Fabulous Academic Presentation

6-tips-for-giving-a-fabulous-academic-presentation.

Tanya Golash-Boza, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of California

January 11, 2022

One of the easiest ways to stand out at an academic conference is to give a fantastic presentation.

In this post, I will discuss a few simple techniques that can make your presentation stand out. Although, it does take time to make a good presentation, it is well worth the investment.

Tip #1: Use PowerPoint Judiciously

Images are powerful. Research shows that images help with memory and learning. Use this to your advantage by finding and using images that help you make your point. One trick I have learned is that you can use images that have blank space in them and you can put words in those images.

Here is one such example from a presentation I gave about immigration law enforcement.

PowerPoint is a great tool, so long as you use it effectively. Generally, this means using lots of visuals and relatively few words. Never use less than 24-point font. And, please, never put your presentation on the slides and read from the slides.

Tip #2: There is a formula to academic presentations. Use it.

Once you have become an expert at giving fabulous presentations, you can deviate from the formula. However, if you are new to presenting, you might want to follow it. This will vary slightly by field, however, I will give an example from my field – sociology – to give you an idea as to what the format should look like:

• Introduction/Overview/Hook
• Theoretical Framework/Research Question
• Methodology/Case Selection
• Background/Literature Review
• Discussion of Data/Results

Tip #3: The audience wants to hear about your research. Tell them.

One of the most common mistakes I see in people giving presentations is that they present only information I already know. This usually happens when they spend nearly all of the presentation going over the existing literature and giving background information on their particular case. You need only to discuss the literature with which you are directly engaging and contributing. Your background information should only include what is absolutely necessary. If you are giving a 15-minute presentation, by the 6 th minute, you need to be discussing your data or case study. At conferences, people are there to learn about your new and exciting research, not to hear a summary of old work.

Tip #4: Practice. Practice. Practice.

You should always practice your presentation in full before you deliver it. You might feel silly delivering your presentation to your cat or your toddler, but you need to do it and do it again. You need to practice to ensure that your presentation fits within the time parameters. Practicing also makes it flow better. You can’t practice too many times.

Tip #5: Keep To Your Time Limit

If you have ten minutes to present, prepare ten minutes of material. No more. Even if you only have seven minutes, you need to finish within the allotted time. If you write your presentation out, a general rule of thumb is two minutes per typed, double-spaced page. For a fifteen-minute talk, you should have no more than 7 double-spaced pages of material.

Tip #6: Don’t Read Your Presentation

Yes, I know that in some fields reading is the norm. But, can you honestly say that you find yourself engaged when listening to someone read their conference presentation? If you absolutely must read, I suggest you read in such a way that no one in the audience can tell you are reading. I have seen people do this successfully, and you can do it too if you write in a conversational tone, practice several times, and read your paper with emotion, conviction, and variation in tone.

What tips do you have for presenters? What is one of the best presentations you have seen? What made it so fantastic? Let us know in the comments below.

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YORK UNIVERSITY: EN 3703 3180 Seminar Presentations Seminar Presentations Plan for 15 to 20 minutes, two to three pages of notes. Run through your seminar before you present it to make sure that you have not prepared too little or too much material. Seminar presenters will work in pairs and should have at least one consultation with the second pair of presenters who will present on a companion text on the same day. Seminar presenters are responsible for reading the secondary material on their selected text. If you want to use any Audio-Visual material (video, powerpoint, CD-Rom) you must send me an email the week before your presentation. An overhead projector is always available. After you give your seminar, you must submit a seminar paper within two weeks. It should be written in continuous prose (not point form) and be fully referenced. It can be altered or changed, based on the results of the tutorial discussion. Marks for seminars will be divided between the presentation and the paper. (Mostly cribbed from Another useful site on seminar presentations is:   ) 1. A seminar presentation is a short informal talk giving the results of your researches into a topic on the course. You are sharing your ideas or discoveries in a way that gives seminar participants an opportunity for discussion. These presentations form a normal part of the teaching and learning process in undergraduate and postgraduate studies. 2. Don't think of the presentation as a test. The person who will learn most from this exercise is you. The act of investigating sources, digesting information, and summarising other people's work will help to clarify these matters in your mind. 3. You will also develop your confidence in handling information, making useful notes, and presenting an argument. 4. Topics can be chosen according to your own particular interests. If you are in any doubt, check with me. They might be: 5. A seminar presentation should not try to imitate an essay. It is better to offer a presentation on something smaller and more specific, rather than the type of general question posed in a coursework essay. 6. Don't write down the presentation verbatim. Make outline notes, then speak to these notes using the set text(s), any critical theory, and your own extended notes as backup material. 7. If you have the resources, it is a nice courtesy to provide other members of the group with a copy of your outline notes. Suggested Headings The general headings for your notes may vary according to the topic of your choice and the approach you adopt. You might say why you have chosen it, or why it seems significant. If possible relate it to the other major issues of the course. Give a brief summary of the origin and principles of any critical theory you will be applying. This will help to 'situate' your remarks. Give a general summary of what you have to say, and its relation to the course as a whole. Make the stages of your argument clear, and indicate the conclusion to which they lead. A good presentation should lead to questions or further issues raised by the subject of your enquiry. Including these issues as part of your conclusion should lead naturally into a discussion amongst the seminar participants. We use essential cookies to make Venngage work. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Manage Cookies Cookies and similar technologies collect certain information about how you’re using our website. Some of them are essential, and without them you wouldn’t be able to use Venngage. But others are optional, and you get to choose whether we use them or not. Strictly Necessary Cookies These cookies are always on, as they’re essential for making Venngage work, and making it safe. Without these cookies, services you’ve asked for can’t be provided. Show cookie providers Google Login Functionality Cookies These cookies help us provide enhanced functionality and personalisation, and remember your settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers. Performance Cookies These cookies help us analyze how many people are using Venngage, where they come from and how they're using it. If you opt out of these cookies, we can’t get feedback to make Venngage better for you and all our users. Google Analytics Targeting Cookies These cookies are set by our advertising partners to track your activity and show you relevant Venngage ads on other sites as you browse the internet. Google Tag Manager Infographics Daily Infographics Popular Templates Accessibility Graphic Design Graphs and Charts Data Visualization Human Resources Beginner Guides Blog Marketing How To Start a Presentation: 15 Ways to Set the Stage How To Start a Presentation: 15 Ways to Set the Stage Written by: Krystle Wong Jul 25, 2023 The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power – it’s your opportunity to make a lasting impression and captivate your audience.  A strong presentation start acts as a beacon, cutting through the noise and instantly capturing the attention of your listeners. With so much content vying for their focus, a captivating opening ensures that your message stands out and resonates with your audience. Whether you’re a startup business owner pitching a brilliant idea, a seasoned presenter delivering a persuasive talk or an expert sharing your experience, the start of your presentation can make all the difference. But don’t fret — I’ve got you covered with 15 electrifying ways to kickstart your presentation.  The presentation introduction examples in this article cover everything from self-introduction to how to start a group presentation, building anticipation that leaves the audience eager to delve into the depths of your topic. Click to jump ahead: How to start a presentation introduction 15 ways to start a presentation and captivate your audience, common mistakes to avoid in the opening of a presentation, faqs on how to start a presentation, captivate the audience from the get-go. Presentations can be scary, I know. But even if stage fright hits, you can always fall back on a simple strategy. Just take a deep breath, introduce yourself and briefly explain the topic of your presentation. To grab attention at the start, try this opening line: Hello everyone. I am so glad you could join me today. I’m very excited about today’s topic. I’m [Your Name] and I’ll be talking about [Presentation Topic]. Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by [Challenge related to your topic]. Many of us might have faced challenges with [Challenge related to your topic]. Today, we’ll explore some strategies that’ll help us [Solution that you’re presenting]. Regardless of your mode of presentation , crafting an engaging introduction sets the stage for a memorable presentation. Let’s dive into some key tips for how to start a presentation speech to help you nail the art of starting with a bang: Understand your audience The key to an engaging introduction is to know your audience inside out and give your audience what they want. Tailor your opening to resonate with their specific interests, needs and expectations. Consider what will captivate them and how you can make your presentation relevant to their lives or work. Use a compelling hook Grab the audience’s attention from the get-go with a compelling hook. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact or a gripping story, a powerful opening will immediately pique their curiosity and keep them invested in what you have to say. State your purpose Be crystal clear about your subject matter and the purpose of your presentation. In just a few sentences, communicate the main objectives and the value your audience will gain from listening to you. Let them know upfront what to expect and they’ll be more likely to stay engaged throughout. Introduce yourself and your team Give a self introduction about who you are such as your job title to establish credibility and rapport with the audience. Some creative ways to introduce yourself in a presentation would be by sharing a brief and engaging personal story that connects to your topic or the theme of your presentation. This approach instantly makes you relatable and captures the audience’s attention. Now, let’s talk about — how to introduce team members in a presentation. Before introducing each team member, briefly explain their role or contribution to the project or presentation. This gives the audience an understanding of their relevance and expertise. Group presentations are also a breeze with the help of Venngage. Our in-editor collaboration tools allow you to edit presentations side by side in real-time. That way, you can seamlessly hare your design with the team for input and make sure everyone is on track.  Maintain enthusiasm Enthusiasm is contagious! Keep the energy levels up throughout your introduction, conveying a positive and upbeat tone. A vibrant and welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for an exciting presentation and keeps the audience eager to hear more. Before you think about how to present a topic, think about how to design impactful slides that can leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here are 120+ presentation ideas , design tips, and examples to help you create an awesome slide deck for your next presentation. Captivating your audience from the get-go is the key to a successful presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or a novice taking the stage for the first time, the opening of your presentation sets the tone for the entire talk.  So, let’s get ready to dive into the 15 most creative ways to start a presentation. I promise you these presentation introduction ideas will captivate your audience, leaving them hanging on your every word. Grab-attention immediately Ask a thought-provoking question. Get the audience’s wheels turning by throwing them a thought-provoking question right out of the gate. Make them ponder, wonder and engage their critical thinking muscles from the very start. Share a surprising statistic or fact Brace yourself for some wide eyes and dropped jaws! Open your presentation with a jaw-dropping statistic or a mind-blowing fact that’s directly related to your topic. Nothing captures attention like a good ol’ dose of shock and awe. State a bold statement or challenge Ready to shake things up? Kick off with a bold and daring statement that sets the stage for your presentation’s epic journey. Boldness has a way of making ears perk up and eyes widen in anticipation! Engage with a poll or interactive activity Turn the audience from passive listeners to active participants by kicking off with a fun poll or interactive activity. Get them on their feet, or rather — their fingertips, right from the start! Venngage’s user-friendly drag-and-drop editor allows you to easily transform your slides into an interactive presentation . Create clickable buttons or navigation elements within your presentation to guide your audience to different sections or external resources.  Enhance engagement by incorporating videos or audio clips directly into your presentation. Venngage supports video and audio embedding, which can add depth to your content. Begin with an opening phrase that captures attention Use opening phrases that can help you create a strong connection with your audience and make them eager to hear more about what you have to say. Remember to be confident, enthusiastic and authentic in your delivery to maximize the impact of your presentation. Here are some effective presentation starting words and phrases that can help you grab your audience’s attention and set the stage for a captivating presentation: “Imagine…” “Picture this…” “Did you know that…” “Have you ever wondered…” “In this presentation, we’ll explore…” “Let’s dive right in and discover…” “I’m excited to share with you…” “I have a confession to make…” “I want to start by telling you a story…” “Before we begin, let’s consider…” “Have you ever faced the challenge of…” “We all know that…” “This is a topic close to my heart because…” “Over the next [minutes/hours], we’ll cover…” “I invite you to journey with me through…” Build connection and credibility Begin with a personal connection . Share a real-life experience or a special connection to the topic at hand. This simple act of opening up creates an instant bond with the audience, turning them into your biggest cheerleaders. Having the team share their personal experiences is also a good group presentation introduction approach. Team members can share their own stories that are related to the topic to create an emotional connection with your audience.  Tell a relevant story Start your presentation with a riveting story that hooks your audience and relates to your main message. Stories have a magical way of captivating hearts and minds. Organize your slides in a clear and sequential manner and use visuals that complement your narrative and evoke emotions to engage the audience. With Venngage, you have access to a vast library of high-quality and captivating stock photography, offering thousands of options to enrich your presentations. The best part? It’s entirely free! Elevate your visual storytelling with stunning images that complement your content, captivate your audience and add a professional touch to your presentation.  Use a powerful quote Sometimes, all you need is some wise words to work wonders. Begin with a powerful quote from a legendary figure that perfectly fits your presentation’s theme — a dose of inspiration sets the stage for an epic journey. Build anticipation Provide a brief outline. Here’s a good introduction for presentation example if you’re giving a speech at a conference. For longer presentations or conferences with multiple speakers especially, providing an outline helps the audience stay focused on the key takeaways. That way, you can better manage your time and ensure that you cover all the key points without rushing or running out of time. Pose a problem and offer a solution A great idea on how to start a business presentation is to start by presenting a problem and offering a well-thought-out solution. By addressing their pain points and showcasing your solution, you’ll capture their interest and set the stage for a compelling and successful presentation. Back up your solution with data, research, or case studies that demonstrate its effectiveness. This can also be a good reporting introduction example that adds credibility to your proposal. Preparing a pitch deck can be a daunting task but fret not. This guide on the 30+ best pitch deck tips and examples has everything you need to bring on new business partners and win new client contracts. Alternatively, you can also get started by customizing one of our professional pitch deck templates for free.  Incite curiosity in the audience Utilize visuals or props. Capture your audience’s gaze by whipping out captivating visuals or props that add an exciting touch to your subject. A well-placed prop or a stunning visual can make your presentation pop like a fireworks show! That said, you maybe wondering — how can I make my presentation more attractive.  A well-designed presentation background instantly captures the audience’s attention and creates a positive first impression. Here are 15 presentation background examples to keep the audience awake to help you get inspired.  Use humor or wit Sprinkle some humor and wit to spice things up. Cracking a clever joke or throwing in a witty remark can break the ice and create a positively charged atmosphere. If you’re cracking your head on how to start a group presentation, humor is a great way to start a presentation speech.  Get your team members involved in the fun to create a collaborative and enjoyable experience for everyone. Laughter is the perfect way to break the ice and set a positive tone for your presentation! Invoke emotion Get those heartstrings tugging! Start with a heartfelt story or example that stirs up emotions and connects with your audience on a personal level. Emotion is the secret sauce to a memorable presentation. Aside from getting creative with your introduction, a well-crafted and creative presentation can boost your confidence as a presenter. Browse our catalog of creative presentation templates and get started right away! Use a dramatic pause A great group presentation example is to start with a powerful moment of silence, like a magician about to reveal their greatest trick. After introducing your team, allow a brief moment of silence. Hold the pause for a few seconds, making it feel deliberate and purposeful. This builds anticipation and curiosity among the audience. Pique their interest Share a fun fact or anecdote. Time for a little fun and games! Kick-off with a lighthearted or fascinating fact that’ll make the audience go, “Wow, really? Tell me more!” A sprinkle of amusement sets the stage for an entertaining ride. While an introduction for a presentation sets the tone for your speech, a good slide complements your spoken words, helping the audience better understand and remember your message. Check out these 12 best presentation software for 2023 that can aid your next presentation.  The opening moments of a presentation can make or break your entire talk. It’s your chance to grab your audience’s attention, set the tone, and lay the foundation for a successful presentation. However, there are some common pitfalls that speakers often fall into when starting their presentations.  Starting with Apologies It might be tempting to start with a preemptive apology, especially if you’re feeling nervous or unsure about your presentation. However, beginning with unnecessary apologies or self-deprecating remarks sets a negative tone right from the start. Instead of exuding confidence and credibility, you’re unintentionally undermining yourself and your message.  Reading from Slides One of the most common blunders in the opening of a PowerPoint presentation is reading directly from your slides or script. While it’s crucial to have a well-structured outline, reciting word-for-word can lead to disengagement and boredom among your audience. Maintain eye contact and connect with your listeners as you speak. Your slides should complement your words, not replace them. Overwhelming with Information In the excitement to impress, some presenters bombard their audience with too much information right at the beginning. Instead of overloading the audience with a sea of data, statistics or technical details that can quickly lead to confusion and disinterest, visualize your data with the help of Venngage. Choose an infographic template that best suits the type of data you want to visualize. Venngage offers a variety of pre-designed templates for charts, graphs, infographics and more. Ignoring the Audience It’s easy to get caught up in the content and forget about the people in front of you. Don’t overlook the importance of acknowledging the audience and building a connection with them. Greet them warmly, make eye contact and maintain body language to show genuine interest in their presence. Engage the audience early on by asking a show of hands question or encourage audience participation.  Lack of Clarity Your audience should know exactly what to expect from your presentation. Starting with a vague or unclear opening leaves them guessing about the purpose and direction of your talk. Clearly communicate the topic and objectives of your presentation right from the beginning. This sets the stage for a focused and coherent message that resonates with your audience. Simplicity makes it easier for the audience to understand and retain the information presented. Check out our gallery of simple presentation templates to keep your opening concise and relevant.  Skipping the Hook The opening of your presentation is the perfect opportunity to hook your audience’s attention and keep them engaged. However, some presenters overlook this crucial aspect and dive straight into the content without any intrigue. Craft an attention-grabbing hook that sparks curiosity, poses a thought-provoking question or shares an interesting fact. A compelling opening is like the key that unlocks your audience’s receptivity to the rest of your presentation. Now that you’ve got the gist of how to introduce a presentation, further brush up your speech with these tips on how to make a persuasive presentation and how to improve your presentation skills to create an engaging presentation .  How can I overcome nervousness at the beginning of a presentation? To overcome nervousness at the beginning of a presentation, take deep breaths, practice beforehand, and focus on connecting with your audience rather than worrying about yourself. How long should the opening of a presentation be? The opening of a presentation should typically be brief, lasting around 1 to 3 minutes, to grab the audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the talk. Should I memorize my presentation’s opening lines? While it’s helpful to know your opening lines, it’s better to understand the key points and flow naturally to maintain authenticity and flexibility during the presentation. Should I use slides during the opening of my presentation? Using slides sparingly during the opening can enhance the message, but avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information early on. How do I transition smoothly from the opening to the main content of my presentation? Transition smoothly from the opening to the main content by providing a clear and concise outline of what’s to come, signaling the shift and maintaining a logical flow between topics. Just as a captivating opening draws your audience in, creating a well-crafted presentation closing has the power to leave a lasting impression. Wrap up in style with these 10 ways to end a presentation . Presenting virtually? Check out these tips on how to ace your next online presentation .  Captivating your audience from the very beginning is crucial for a successful presentation. The first few moments of your talk can set the tone and determine whether your audience remains engaged throughout or loses interest.  Start with a compelling opening that grabs their attention. You can use a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic or a powerful quote to pique their curiosity. Alternatively, storytelling can be a potent tool to draw them into your narrative. It’s essential to establish a personal connection early on, whether by sharing a relatable experience or expressing empathy towards their needs and interests. Lastly, be mindful of your body language and vocal delivery. A confident and engaging speaker can captivate an audience, so make eye contact, use appropriate gestures and vary your tone to convey passion and sincerity. In conclusion, captivating your audience from the very beginning requires thoughtful preparation, engaging content and a confident delivery. With Venngage’s customizable templates, you can adapt your presentation to suit the preferences and interests of your specific audience, ensuring maximum engagement. Go on and get started today! Discover popular designs Infographic maker Brochure maker White paper online Newsletter creator Flyer maker Timeline maker Letterhead maker Mind map maker Ebook maker 10 Seminar preparation tips, preparing the Slides I summarized 10 points to make your engineering seminar PPT slides more friendly and suitable for the audience. Remember, the seminar slides (PowerPoint or Google Slide) are critical tools for your seminar presentation, so be familiar with their usage, such as slide show, and utilize them. Writing a precise statement involves expressing a clear and concise idea with no unnecessary words or ambiguity, effectively conveying the intended message or argument. It should be well-structured, logically organized, and supported by evidence or references when applicable. While preparing PPT slides, you should consider the following important points While preparing a seminar , entirely focus on the key points and the content. Practice by reading aloud. You will quickly find out if something goes wrong. Use straightforward language to convey the message. Start the seminar with a catching introduction. Tell your audience why your seminar topic is interesting, vital, and different. Spell your words correctly, and there should be no typo errors. Make sure that the audience hears you first and then the slides. Try to make it short, engaging, and audience-oriented. Don’t spend much time on scientific points unless it is stated. Once you complete your seminar, tell all the points in a summary. Google Slides is a recommended tool for preparing your document, which also helps you to collaborate in real time with your batchmates. Other must-read seminar articles at Collegelib on how to prepare a seminar presentation: 20 Topics for 2-minute speeches 10 Seminar presentation techniques Seminar sample report formats, guidelines Dissertation writing mistakes Abstract preparation techniques Topics For Seminar | How to Find Topics, How to Choose one? Related Topic: 12 Steps for making innovative project ideas Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know your feedback on this thread. Also, feel free to share if you have more ideas on preparing a good PPT slide to improve your seminar topic. Good luck with your presentation! 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(today) The Benefits of Reading 📚 2-Minute Speech 5G Technology Seminar Report IIoT – An introduction to the Industrial Internet of Things Norvi IIoT for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) IoT Analytics Technology Seminar Report Top 21 Seminar Topics for Electrical Engineering Students 2024. ( AI, IoT and Renewable Energy ) Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) Technology PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In EDIT Edit this Article EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth Browse Articles Learn Something New Quizzes Hot Happiness Hub This Or That Game Train Your Brain Explore More Support wikiHow About wikiHow Log in / Sign up Education and Communications Presentations How to Give a Seminar Last Updated: October 6, 2023 Fact Checked This article was co-authored by Deb DiSandro . Deb DiSandro is the Owner of Speak Up On Purpose, an organization dedicated to improving and teaching public speaking. Deb has over 30 years of experience as a national speaker and has presented at the Erma Bombeck Writer’s Conference and the National Society of Newspaper Columnists. She was awarded the National Speakers Association Member of the Year 2007 and has been published in Writer's Digest, Daily Herald, Women's Day, and Better Homes & Gardens. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 509,100 times. Giving a seminar is a great opportunity to share your knowledge and experience with other people. Public speaking can be daunting, but practice and preparation can minimize many of these anxieties. To give your best seminar, start by understanding the organizer’s expectations in terms of time and content. Organize your seminar as a series of talking points, intermixed with interesting visuals and activities. Project your confidence as a speaker by maintaining eye contact, watching your body language, and speaking clearly. Making Your Initial Preparations You might ask, “Are you looking for a lecture format that is focused on research or a more interactive audience experience?” In most cases, plan to involve the audience through interactive activities. While the types of activities might differ, the involvement will help the audience participate. For example, in a scientific talk before a group of specialists, you may not need to explain all of your jargon and can jump into in-depth topics more quickly. [2] X Research source Depending on your audience, you may also choose to directly engage with controversial topics or shy away from them. You can even get to the venue a bit early and try to talk with some audience members to get a better feel for the room prior to directing your seminar. You might ask one of the attendees, “What made you want to attend this particular seminar?” If you are in a professional setting, consider talking to some of the attendees ahead of time to see what they would like to learn. For example, if you are planning to use a slide presentation, then you’ll want to make sure that the room is equipped with a good projection system. Be aware that it takes anywhere from 1-2 minutes for an audience member to read through a slide along with you. Therefore, don’t overload your presentation with slides or you will never finish. Instead, go with pictures that can accompany the information that you are providing directly to your audience. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source You can also use other visual styles, such as models, posters, flyers, or brochures. Don’t feel forced into sticking with slides and instead consider dipping into your creative side, if the seminar format supports this. If the paper that you circulate is a work in progress, you might say so on the draft itself and then repeat this at the start of your seminar. This way audience members will know that you welcome constructive criticism and other ideas. After each practice session, make notes on the sections that are working well and those that still need some refining. If you arrive 15-30 minutes beforehand that is usually enough time to accomplish everything that you need to do prior to starting the session. If it is a large seminar or a seminar that relies heavily on technology, you might consider arriving up to an hour early. Managing Your Content Be humble as you introduce yourself, but stress your credibility in this subject. Instead of assuming that you know more about your audience, just let them know what experience you have. If someone else introduced you, make sure that they have a copy of your biography in advance. Bring an extra copy with you. When it's time for you to speak, you might say a few quick words about your passion for this project and offer your thanks to the organizers for the opportunity to speak with your audience today. For example, if you are giving a seminar focusing on a chronological topic, such as the development of the U.S. Civil War, make sure to give your audience plenty of warning before you jump time periods. For example, if you have a slide with a photo of Lincoln, then you could build upon that by discussing his time in office or his personal background. This information doesn’t need to be spelled out alongside the image. Print out a copy of your slides and keep it in front of you as you speak. This will remind you which slide is coming up next so that you can smoothly transition to the next point. An icebreaker activity at the beginning of the seminar helps lighten the mood and grab people's attention. You can break up large groups into small groups to have them discuss a problem, question, or point. For example, you might say, “Well, I’ve reached the end of my time, but I would love to talk about any of these issues in response to any questions that you have.” When planning your seminar, make sure to leave time at the end to answer questions. Prepare a short statement to wrap up the talk after the Q&A session is over. Try to thank each person for their question after answering it. If a particular person tries to dominate the question session, you can offer to speak with them after. If you don’t know the answer to a particular question, it is okay to say, “That is an excellent question, but I do not have that exact information.” [10] X Research source Projecting Confidence and Expertise It might help to write, “Speak clearly,” in the margins of your presentation notes. This will remind you to keep up your voice mid-presentation. To practice projecting your voice, stick your tongue all the way out and say a nursery rhyme, like Humpty Dumpty. Afterward, say the same rhyme normally. You'll notice that you can project your voice more clearly after doing this exercise. For example, you might say, “I just noticed that that figure in column 3 is not up to date as of today, so the more accurate number would be…” To help transition between points, move to another part of the room or change places when you move through certain points. If you want to emphasize a point, stop your body completely. Plant your feet together and take a pause before saying the sentence. Expert Q&A Express your excitement at the opportunity to speak with your audience. Your passion for your topic can go a long way toward building rapport with your audience. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2 Tips from our Readers When presenting a seminar at the college level, choose a topic from the point of view of your listeners so that they can more easily understand what you have to tell them. Think about your audience as though they are good friends of yours and you're just having a conversation. It will help you be less nervous. Keep your energy up and smile whenever it's appropriate. Your audience will connect with you more if you seem excited and enthusiastic. You Might Also Like ↑ https://www.science.org/content/article/tooling-finer-points-giving-job-talk ↑ https://www.hanselman.com/blog/11TopTipsForASuccessfulTechnicalPresentation.aspx ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8638955/ ↑ https://www.engineering.iastate.edu/ecs/students/the-employment-process/the-employment-process-for-graduate-students/interviewing-as-a-graduate-student/on-site-interviewing/interview-seminar/ ↑ https://bizfluent.com/how-7726480-create-interactive-seminars.html ↑ https://speakerhub.com/skillcamp/qas-what-do-when-you-dont-know ↑ http://www.cgd.ucar.edu/cms/agu/scientific_talk.html About This Article To give a seminar, start by preparing an outline that lists your main points in a logical order. Additionally, create visual aids, like slides or posters, that are clear and easily readable to add interest to your seminar. When it’s time to begin, introduce yourself and talk about your background, then work through your outline while maintaining steady and consistent eye contact. Try to leave time at the end to answer any questions, but make sure you stick to your allotted time. For more tips from our Business reviewer, including how to keep your audience actively engaged in your seminar, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No Send fan mail to authors Reader Success Stories Abhishek sinha Jul 25, 2017 Did this article help you? Bill Edwards Jun 30, 2016 May 1, 2017 Min Prasad Sharma Jan 22, 2020 Orland Orlanes Jun 29, 2016 Featured Articles Trending Articles Watch Articles Terms of Use Privacy Policy Do Not Sell or Share My Info Not Selling Info wikiHow Tech Help Pro: Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve Preparing and Delivering a Seminar Build a seminar around the main points you want to convey. make sure that each one is clearly, slowly and explicitly stated when it first arises during the talk. at the end of the talk, restate all of the points in a summary.. Here are some additional principles, practices, and tips for preparing and delivering seminars. Some of these ideas apply to writing papers, too. Assume your audience is infinitely ignorant but infinitely intelligent. The audience will understand a clear, complete explanation. (Thanks to Barry Honig.) Give a good introduction. A research report will be boring to everyone except an expert in your area unless you provide the context. Explain why what you are doing is interesting and important. Never underestimate a person's pleasure in hearing a good presentation of what he or she already knows. Don't feel foolish providing background that your audience might be familiar with. And don't assume your audience knows a great deal more than you do, even if you are a graduate student and they are professors. They still need you to orient them to what you are doing. (Thanks to Andy McCammon.) Keep your audience oriented. Make sure that they understand, at each step, why you are presenting each topic. If the audience becomes disoriented, you will lose their attention. Presenting an outline of the talk near the beginning can help. (Thanks to Marti Head.) A talk should entertain. The best scientific talks entertain by giving people new ideas and perspectives. High-quality graphics can also help. Present only one big idea per slide. This helps convey your ideas forcefully, and prevents the audience from reading ahead instead of listening to you. (The exceptions are the outline and summary slides.) Never read aloud from your slides! A slide should support your talk, never substitute for it. Avoid spending time on highly technical points. Unless it is a critical detail, it is acceptable to briefly state what was done and that it was reasonable, and add that you'd be happy to explain it in detail if anyone is interested. Then continue with the seminar. Practice. Stand in front of a seminar room and present to an imagined audience or to a friend. Identify parts where you have trouble finding the right words and work on them. Make sure the talk is about the right length. Benefit from other people's opinions of your talk. Parts of your talk may be less clear than you imagined. Even invalid criticism can be helpful: if one person thought your talk had an error, someone else probably will also, so head off future concerns by add a sentence or two to make your point clearer. Pay attention to your audience when you're speaking . If everyone is watching you and listening, you are succeeding! If people look lost or somnolent, you may need to slow down, speak more loudly, and/or explain better. When you are speaking, you are in charge. A talk can be badly derailed if you get into a discussion or debate with someone in the audience. If the discussion seems to have no end, say that you'll be pleased to continue the discussion after the talk and then resume. Check the time occasionally during your talk. Adjust the level of detail and the rate of presentation so that the talk fits the allotted time. 402 IMAGES HOW TO WRITE A SEMINAR PRESENTATION (PDF) Preparing And Presenting a Seminar 8 Simple Steps to Organize a Professional Seminar Business, Conference, Convention, Presentation, Seminar Business Flow How to make your Presentation impressive for seminar || Important tips and tricks || The Success Hub Seminar Planning Guide From World Synergy VIDEO Nursing Seminar How to Give an Impressive Presentation & Seminar Crafting an Impactful Seminar Presentation for Industry Jobs: Practical Mindset and Actionable Steps Recorded Training: Case Writing, Strategy & Winning Debates from Prep How To Create Business Growth, #Ladder, Steps Presentation Slide in Microsoft Office PowerPoint PPT How To Choose A Good Seminar Topic COMMENTS Ten tips for delivering excellent scientific presentations Never step up to a lectern for your lecture not having been there before and not knowing what will be in front of you. Visit the podium some time before your presentation and examine the slide advance and laser pointer devices (often combined in the same device), microphone set up (more on this in tip #4), electronic timer or time warning ... Seminar Planning Guide From World Synergy Here are 5 steps to achieving a successful and smooth-running seminar: Determine the Who, What, When, Where and Why. Prepare a Registration Process. Develop an Outreach Strategy. Prepare for the Presentation. Develop a Follow-Up Strategy. How To Write A Presentation 101 6/ Engage Emotionally. Connect emotional levels with your audience by appealing to their aspirations, fears, desires, or values. They help create a deeper connection and engagement from the very beginning. Make sure your introduction is concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details or lengthy explanations. Preparing And Presenting a Seminar The primary objective of seminar presentation is to enhance presentation skills when persuading, educating, or informing an audience. Specifically, it provides a focus on the fundamental aspects of a quality academic, professional and business communications including structure, preparation and strategy for delivery, using visual aids, and handling question and answer sessions. What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired ... Senior Seminar Senior Seminar Presentation. 1. Pick a good topic Choose a topic that is of interest to you and of general interest as well. Remember that a seminar is really a story, and giving a good seminar is the same thing as telling a good story. Selecting a topic that will make a good story is a big first step toward making your seminar a good one. PDF How to give good seminar presentations Almost done. Do not leave important questions unanswered at the end of the presentation. Open issues should be explicitly addressed (e.g., future work) Provide a summary of the main message of your presentation. Try to close the circle: link the results at the end to the motivating questions at the beginning. 5 essential preparation steps for a successful presentation Get started with TED Masterclass. When preparing for your presentation, there are 5 steps to keep in mind when preparing for your presentation. These include: choosing the right software for your needs, organizing your files, preparing your presentation materials, practice, and make sure to do a final test run. How to Structure your Presentation, with Examples This clarifies the overall purpose of your talk and reinforces your reason for being there. Follow these steps: Signal that it's nearly the end of your presentation, for example, "As we wrap up/as we wind down the talk…". Restate the topic and purpose of your presentation - "In this speech I wanted to compare…". 5. How to Give a Killer Presentation Frame your story (figure out where to start and where to end). Plan your delivery (decide whether to memorize your speech word for word or develop bullet points and then rehearse it—over and ... How to Start a Presentation: 12 Ways to Keep Your Audience Hooked 1 Make a provocative statement. "I want to discuss with you this afternoon why you're going to fail to have a great career." One surefire way to get your audience's attention is to make a provocative statement that creates interest and a keen desire to know more about what you have to say. The presentation above, for example, does just that by ... 10 Techniques for Seminar Presentation : Collegelib.com Seminar Presentation #1. Practice. Preparing for a student seminar presentation involves several important steps to ensure a confident and effective delivery. Firstly, thoroughly understand the topic and organize the content into a clear, logical structure, including an introduction, main points, and conclusion. ... How to Give a Good Presentation: 10 Tips Here are five presentation tips to help you create a strong presentation and wow your audience: 1. Keep it simple. Simple means something different to everyone. Before creating your presentation, take note of your intended audience and their knowledge level of your subject. You'll want your content to be easy for your intended audience to follow. How to Plan and Manage a Seminar Group Activities. Group activities are another essential component of a successful seminar, fostering teamwork, collaboration, and networking among participants. These activities aim to break the ice, encourage interaction, and promote a sense of camaraderie among attendees. Depending on the seminar's nature and objectives, group activities can ... Complete Guide On How To Prepare A Seminar 3. Choose a seminar topic and format. The next step to preparing your seminar is choosing a topic. Your topic is important in determining how attractive your seminar will be for your potential attendees. Research relevant topics that can also be relevant to the industry you're serving. 6 Tips For Giving a Fabulous Academic Presentation Tip #4: Practice. Practice. Practice. You should always practice your presentation in full before you deliver it. You might feel silly delivering your presentation to your cat or your toddler, but you need to do it and do it again. You need to practice to ensure that your presentation fits within the time parameters. Seminar Presentations 1. A seminar presentation is a short informal talk giving the results of your researches into a topic on the course. You are sharing your ideas or discoveries in a way that gives seminar participants an opportunity for discussion. These presentations form a normal part of the teaching and learning process in undergraduate and postgraduate studies. What Are Effective Presentation Skills (and How to Improve Them) Presentation skills are the abilities and qualities necessary for creating and delivering a compelling presentation that effectively communicates information and ideas. They encompass what you say, how you structure it, and the materials you include to support what you say, such as slides, videos, or images. You'll make presentations at various ... 16 Steps to Planning a Seminar Step 1: Define your purpose and goals. Break this one down into easily digestible steps: First, write down your seminar's purpose. Then, set goals for how many people you want to attend in person or to watch your livestream. Finally, set a clear profit goal, which will help you calculate how much to charge attendees. How To Start a Presentation: 15 Ways to Set the Stage Use humor or wit. Sprinkle some humor and wit to spice things up. Cracking a clever joke or throwing in a witty remark can break the ice and create a positively charged atmosphere. If you're cracking your head on how to start a group presentation, humor is a great way to start a presentation speech. 10 Seminar preparation tips, preparing the Slides Remember, the seminar slides (PowerPoint or Google Slide) are critical tools for your seminar presentation, so be familiar with their usage, such as slide show, and utilize them. Writing a precise statement involves expressing a clear and concise idea with no unnecessary words or ambiguity, effectively conveying the intended message or argument. 3 Ways to Give a Seminar 4. Create audience-friendly slides and visual aids. As you start to craft your presentation, think about whether or not your audience can actually interact with your visuals. For example, if you are using slides, then they need to be visible, clear, and easily readable. Use a large font and clear lettering. PDF STUDENT SEMINAR PRESENTATION SHEET We believe these steps help make the seminar a bene cial experience for both presenters and attendees. Make sure you complete the steps in the checklist and answer the questions on the opposite page. After you give your talk and discuss it with your advisor, return the completed form to the seminar organizers. Name: Talk title (or topic): Date ... Preparing and Delivering a Seminar Preparing and Delivering a Seminar. Build a seminar around the main points you want to convey. Make sure that each one is clearly, slowly and explicitly stated when it first arises during the talk. At the end of the talk, restate all of the points in a summary. Here are some additional principles, practices, and tips for preparing and ... assignment essay homework paper report resume review speech