We all know the basic requirements of giving an effective presentation, and most of us have given presentations at one time or another. Yes, it is important to know our subject and present it in an organized way, have good eye contact, be enthusiastic, have audio visuals, speak with confidence, clarity, and sincerity, remember to smile and use humor, interact with our audience, etc. However, it takes more than just knowing the basics to be an excellent speaker. It requires practice, but practice alone isn't enough either.

There is definitely an "art" to giving presentations. The Webster dictionary defines art as a "skill acquired by experience, study or observation," or "the conscious use of skill and creative imagination." Constructive feedback rouses this awareness and "consciousness" and can make all the difference when we are ready to refine and improve our speaking skills. So developing the "art" of presentation requires consciously and creatively applying and practicing our knowledge and skills, based on constructive feedback.

"Every time you give a presentation you are drawing upon your past experiences and you are sharing part of yourself," according to Lesley Craig, who described her first debut in front of a large group in South Africa at the age of 5 years old! Lesley encourages us to remember three main points in developing our "art"—:

1. Know what is required;
2. Practice, practice, practice;
3. Invite constructive feedback from others so that we can consciously make improvements.

"When you are ready to face your fears about public speaking, the professional speaking club, Toastmasters' International, is the club to join," says Lesley. "Toastmasters provides a structured program where you can consciously work on developing your presentation and leadership skills. You learn by trial and error in afriendly, supportive environment with other aspiring and empathizing speakers.

"Toastmasters offers you an enjoyable, self-paced, ongoing, experiential learning environment where you can hone and tune your presentations to fine are. Toastmasters will help you become better communicators and leaders and will help you 'master those wobbly knees."

You have an opportunity to overcome your fear of speaking every time you come to Business Connections and give your "30-Second Spot"—letting people know who you are, what you do, and giving them reasons why they should come see you. The challenge is saying something concise and coherent in 30-seconds that successfully promotes you and your business. Writing out your personal marketing statement ahead of time and practicing can make a real difference, as well as asking for feedback from other BC members.

Developing your "art of presentation" is a choice and a commitment and can only enhance your success as a business owner and build your self-confidence.

© 1998 Gabrielle Parkinson