Enhancement of Presentations Skills in the Public Sector

Course Overview:

Many people have a fear of presenting in public. This program is designed to take the fear and stress away from presenting by offering a series of tools and techniques that facilitate great presentations. The ability to present ideas and concepts is an increasingly valuable skill within the modern workplace; further, it is required at all levels within the organization. The ability to influence groups of people and create momentum for action is rewarding, both for the individual and the organization. For many, the challenge is to develop the confidence to present. Whether you are a seasoned orator or a novice, you can improve your business presentation skills and enhance your personal credibility through planning, preparation, and practice.

In this program, participants will practice presenting in a supportive environment and learn how to structure their materials to create engaging presentations that inform, educate, and entertain their audiences. They will learn how to use body language, the importance of tone and projection and the paramount need to make a good early impression. This course builds on existing skills and seeks to enhance performance and develop confidence by providing a structured approach combined with practice sessions and focused feedback. The program seeks to build a perception of presenting as a means for delegates to meet their professional goals and not an exercise that creates fear and apprehension.

Course Objectives:

At the end of this course, the participants will be able to:

Identify the essential components of a presentation- who what why where when
Identify and meet the needs of the audience and organize information in a clear and concise manner
Create an attention-grabbing introduction, a mid-deliver high and a memorable exit
Utilize mind-mapping techniques to assist in planning
Learn to work from simple prompts
Implement techniques for varying vocal tones and body language
Develop and adopt strategies for handling questions and difficult audiences
Control and manage the stress that presenting often creates
Point out the benefits and pitfalls of various visual-aid options and audience seating arrangements
Learn to tailor their message to the needs of the audience
Learn to project the voice with confidence and effect
Pace a presentation to increase clarity, enhance presence and hold the attention of an audience
Learn effective use of visual aids

Course Coverage:

Topic 1: The Building Blocks of Effective Business Presentations:

To fail to prepare is to prepare to fail
Fears and concerns about presenting
Working together and the feedback process
Pre-prepared presentation on the subject of personal choice. Presentation
Key learning and outcomes
Organizing your presentation – Who? What? and Why?

Topic 2: Giving Structure to Your Business Presentation:

Who is your audience? What are their needs?
Key elements of the message and why required?
Structuring the message: the BOMBER process (bang/ opening/ message/bridge/ examples/ recap)
Brainstorming materials
Stage management, the physical environment, and visual aids
Practical Presentation: the opportunity to repeat delivery of I or differing choice

Topic 3: The Psychology of Presenting: Controlling Self, Stress and Emotions:

Top ten fears – irrational fears of presenting
Handling nervous reactions
Vocal projection: stories and anecdotes
The psychology of presenting (left and right brain) and maintaining audience interest
VHF –NLP -engaging the audience with lighthouse techniques

Topic 4: Business Presentations with Style:

Managing your audience
Handling difficult questions
Handling difficult people!
Practical Presentation
Video Feedback: the power of the captured image!
Personal Reflections on Presentation

Topic 5: Fine-Tuning for Perfect Presenting:

Assessing personal performance
Advanced tools to involve the audience
Top Ten closing tips for Business Presenting
Self-belief: Positive affirmations about presenting
Business performance Coaching for success
Action planning for personal, team and organizational improvement

Targeted Groups:

Individuals with leadership potential
Individuals being developed for the promotion
Individuals who need to communicate effectively to fulfil their role
Individuals who can disseminate newly learned skills within the workplace
Individuals who want to be able to build lasting rapport with those around them