Achieving Maximum Effectiveness in Presenting

Abstract

The visual elements of a presentation make a greater impact on audiences than the verbal elements, as effective presenters are aware. This greater impact is due to the fact that humans have more highly evolved vision than other senses. Furthermore, the key role played in communication by non-verbal signals generally has been amply demonstrated through academic research. A study, which looked at the effects of communicating single words, ascertained that the expression on the speaker’s face carried 55% of the message, the tone of voice 38% and the word itself only 7%. At all stages in delivering a presentation, try to maintain eye contact with the listeners. Failing to keep eye contact conveys a very negative impression, such as that you have no wish to present, do not genuinely believe in the message you are giving or possibly that you cannot be trusted. Conversely, a speech delivered with genuine positive emotion conveys the idea of sincerity. If the audience observes your belief, they will also tend to accept the message. Ensure that you can deliver your presentation without needing to look down at cue cards, by practising well. Reliance on cue cards tends to prevent eye contact with the audience and constrains your emotional responses to the message.