The clock doesn't lie!
If you are giving business presentations, no doubt you're working within a timeframe. Your clients and prospects are busy people. They want to get the most value out of time spent in your presentation.
Professional public speakers often record their talks -- and practice delivering to fit within specific time slots. One hour? Got it. Twenty minutes? No problem. Ten? It's a snap.
What is it that professionals know -- that you can use too?
These 4 secrets can help you time your performance for perfect success.
Secret 1: Time Your Opening
Most likely, you will use the same opening, even for presentations that vary in length. When you practice your initial start and focus on your key points, you can develop a highly persuasive introduction.
In addition, your opening sets the tone for your entire presentation. When you start strong, you're going to grab audience attention. Then, you are in a good position to hold attention for the duration.
Secret 2: Rehearse For Every Timeslot
Even if you are very familiar with your topic and presentation, rehearse and practice for each timeslot. Your stories will vary. Audience interaction will expand and contract based on time available.
During face-to-face delivery, you are likely to speak more slowly than in rehearsals. This is due to adding impromptu comments, adding stories, and interacting with your audience.
Alternatively, if you are extremely nervous about presenting, you may talk faster -- and race through your talk without taking a breath. To avoid this downhill slide, practice so you are comfortable with the best pacing for every amount of time.
Don't make the mistake of thinking; "I could do this in my sleep." If you could, you just might sleep through the alarm signaling the end of your allotted time.
Secret 3: Practice Questions and Answers
Answering questions is one of the most critical areas to stay within your timeframe is answering questions. Practice giving brief and concise answers with your presentation coach or with peers.
Focus on the questions you anticipate most from each specific audience. Practice giving shorter and longer answers - while still remaining personable. This provides several options for being able to manage your time - and create interaction with your audience.
If you are giving an extremely short summary, it is acceptable to say, "I'm so sorry I don't have time for questions right here. But I will be available to answer your questions one-on-one."
Alternatively, you can provide your contact information and say, "I'm sorry our time is so short. I'm happy to answer you questions personally. Just contact me directly."
These comments encourage participants to ask their questions -- at a later time. In addition, comments such as these also show your willingness to share your expertise and make the best use of the limited time you have to present your information.
Secret 4: Work With an Expert Coach.
Whether you are new to presenting or highly experienced, a professional coach can give you objective feedback. He or she can instantly spot small changes, which can dramatically improve your performance.
One of the most fascinating areas of feedback will be on how to be effective in any time slot. In working with your coach, be sure to ask for timing feedback. This can help you increase confidence and be ready to happily adapt an hour presentation into a 10-minute summary.
Develop your presentation skills so you can communicate effectively to any audience. Timing is one of the trickiest areas and is critical for success in business presentations.
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