Public Presentations

Someone once said “the only thing more feared than death and taxes is public speaking” I’m not sure who said it or why but I swear somebody said it, maybe it was me, who cares. I’ve done some research on public speaking and most apply to giving an oral presentation or reading a paper to a large class but none specifically applied to a visual demonstration like our senior presentation. So I got all the best list of “how-to’s” together and came up with my:

10 TIPS (PLUS ONE FOR GOOD LUCK) ON GIVING YOUR SENIOR PRESENTATION.

1. Do your homework. In our case (like Bridget said this morning) this is your work, any question that could possibly be asked you have the answer to. So take pride and comfort in knowing you have studied for this test.

2. Play the parts. Good presentations are structured in sections. Many presentations need only two or three main points. Organizing your points into a few main parts and telling your audience what these parts are–both before and as you go through your presentation–can be the difference between a winning presentation and a loser.

3. Do a dry run. Its obviously always a good idea to practice practice practice, in front of roommates, your computer, strangers and teachers. Try scheduling a meeting during office hours to do a dry run with one of the portfolio professors and get some feedback. Or recording yourself to take notes on things you may not notice while presenting yourself.

4. Look presentable. You don’t need to wear a tux but you should also not be wearing anything you show up to your 8ams in. I’m sure everyone plans to look great (you all read Marissa’s blog so you’re prepared) but don’t forget to be comfortable too, you might rock that skirt like nobody’s business but if the zipper is scratching your ass the whole time you’re not bringing you’re A-game.

5. Be yourself. As important as the content you present is your authenticity in presenting it, so don't try to be someone you're not. Tell a joke or two if that’s your thing or talk with your hands if you’re passionate about the project… maybe don’t wink at anyone people tend to get a little creeped out by that

6. Talk! Prolonged awkward silences are not good for ANY situation, let alone an interview or presentation. You know the material, you love the material, talk about it! As you flip through your app and physical portfolio talk about your interest in the piece, inspiration or any funny hang ups you may have had. Show the viewer that you were present throughout the whole process.

7. Take it slow. Yelling at the viewer at the speed of light is not as enticing as you may think. Remember that this is the first time they are seeing and hearing about the work so speak clearly and at an appropriate speed.

8. Welcome interruptions. Someone stopping you mid riff can be a little distracting but it is not the end of the world (remember you know what you’re talking about). Don’t be afraid to stop and be attentive to those you are presenting to, it shows confidence in yourself and your work.

9. Circle the crowd. You may be more comfortable talking to some people over others but make sure to move your eyes around the room. This lets the audience know you are attentive and happy to be there. Remember that they should be looking at your work so you shouldn’t have to worry about getting locked into eye contact. You also should know your app so well by this point you wont need to look down at all.

10. Appear relaxed. You don’t have to BE relaxed, just act it. Drink some water before (not too much) breathe regularly (in and out) and try really hard not to shake violently.

11. Finish strong. Try not to end your senior presentation with “uhhh… yea that’s all I got” think of it as a final paper and try to write up some kind of conclusion (do not say “in conclusion”). Thank the viewers for their time and ask if they have any other questions.