Format and Rehearsals

Working in events? Then sooner or later, you may find yourself behind the mic, whether for a presentation or to introduce speakers. 

This second blog in our series dives into picking the right format and the art of rehearsing, because trust me, these factors really can make or break your delivery. 

Whether you're presenting at a large conference or a smaller workshop, understanding how to choose the right format and effectively rehearse is vital. 

Choosing the Right Format

Materials and Audio/Visual Aids

First things first, think about your materials and tech. Slides? Videos? Props? High-quality visuals can make your message pop and keep the audience hooked. And don’t forget to test everything. The last thing you need is a mic fail or a whistling speaker to ruin the mood.

Inspirational vs. Instructional Style

Next up, decide on your style. Will your presentation be inspirational, instructional, or a mix of both?  Inspirational talks use stories and emotions to light a fire under your audience. Instructional talks are all about clear, concise information. Choose what fits your event goals and your audience expectations.

Balancing Stillness and Energy

Finding the right balance between stillness and energy in your delivery is key. Too much movement? Distracting. Too little? Snooze fest. Use gestures to emphasise your points, stay animated, and make eye contact to connect. Practising your delivery can help you find an authentic and engaging natural rhythm.  Imagine you're on a TED Talk stage, the famous red dot, if you find yourself roaming about it's there for a reason. 

Structuring Your Presentation

Flow of the Presentation

A well-structured presentation flows logically from one point to the next. Like a good story, it should start with a strong opening that grabs attention, followed by the main content, and finish with a memorable closing. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to maintain the audience's interest and comprehension.

Timing with and without Notes

Rehearse your presentation with and without notes to gauge your timing. Speaking with notes can help keep you on track, but relying too heavily on them can make your delivery seem less natural. Practice without notes to become more familiar with the content, this way, you’ll come off as more spontaneous and engaging.

Bullet Points vs. Detailed Notes

Decide what works best for you based on your comfort level. Bullet points can help you remember key topics while giving you flexibility. Detailed notes are great for complex subjects but might tempt you to read straight from them. Find your balance.

Rehearsal Techniques

Timing and Adjusting Based on Practice Sessions

Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse! Do it in front of a mirror, record yourself, and tweak your pacing. Pay attention to the length of each section and adjust it to fit your allotted time.

Identifying and Overcoming Sticking Points

Find the parts where you stumble or tend to lose your train of thought and practice them until you’re confident. Breaking your talk into smaller segments can help you tackle challenging parts more effectively.

Video Practice and Feedback from a Critical Friend

Record your practice sessions. Watching yourself helps spot areas for improvement. Also, get a trusted friend to give you honest feedback. They might catch things you missed.

Technical Rehearsals

Onsite Rehearsals

If you can, visit the venue before the event. Test the equipment, including microphones, projectors, and lighting, to ensure everything works smoothly and get a feel for the space. Knowing the layout and acoustics helps you plan your movements and delivery.

Virtual Rehearsals

For virtual presentations, technical rehearsals are equally important. Test your lighting, audio, and internet connectivity. Ensure your background is professional and free of distractions. Familiarise yourself with the platform's features, such as screen sharing and chat functions, to handle any issues smoothly.

Wrapping up

Choosing the right format and rehearsing effectively are the keys to a successful presentation. Use these strategies to prep, and you’ll deliver a confident, engaging presentation that resonates with your audience. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you rehearse, the more polished you’ll be.