Business Presentation and Speeches

Right or wrong, people form a perception about how competent you are by how you present yourself when you stand and speak. They also form perceptions about the company you represent based on your performance. People enjoy presenters who are inviting, engaging, and informative.
There are many similarities between a speech and a business presentation. They both involve a person talking to many people at the same time, having their thoughts known out loud, and expecting a response from them. But this is where the similarities end. Believe it or not, a "speech" and a "presentation" are not the same things. It's one thing to present something in front of a group of people and it's a whole different thing to get up on a stage and hold a speech.

1. Planning:
When you are preparing your first business presentation or speech, it is very difficult to decide what to say, how to say, etc. You might be scared or nervous. Some people are naturally talented at public speaking, but with helpful guidance, anyone can prepare a successful speech. It is necessary to plan your speech. The contents of the speech and how you should deliver it are based on five important factors and that are:

a) Occasion:
The circumstances or occasions will have a great bearing on your speech. The facilities available for your presentation, time, and context are the factors that contribute to the occasion of the presentation.

b) Audience:
Your speech must be targeted to the audience. The more you understand about your audience and their needs, the better you can prepare your speech to assure that you meet their needs.

c) Purpose:
The purpose of a presentation is to inform, persuade, inspire, or entertain. An informative presentation gives the audience information about the topic; this could be information that is interesting or useful.

d) Thesis:
The central or core idea of your presentation is referred to as the thesis statement, a single statement that summarizes your message. Your exact purpose is revealed in a single statement. It should be clear otherwise, the audience will be confused.

e) Material:
Once you have formulated your thesis, you need to develop the information that elaborates it. Collection material requires some research.

2. Structuring:
Presentations need to be very straightforward and logical. You must avoid complex structures and focus on the need to explain and discuss your work clearly. Without a defined structure, your audience may not be able to follow your presentation.

3. Organizing/Outlining:
The main body of the presentation requires organizing. Identify the key points, and then decide which organizational plan best develops these points.

4. Patterns:
The body of a presentation can be organized into six basic patterns. The best pattern that suits your topic has to be chosen by you. The six basic patterns are chronological, topical, problem and solution, directional, cause and effect, and climatic pattern.

5. Delivery:
Delivery includes these following points:
a) Get there early
b) Breathe
c) Show your Passion
d) Be a storyteller
e) Make it interactive
d) Use humor
e) Plan time for questions