Prepare.
"The mind is a wonderful thing. It starts working the minute you're born and never stops working until you get up to speak in public." (Unknown source) .The quality of your presentation is most directly related to the quality of your preparation. Rarely will you have difficulties in your presentation due to being "overprepared."
? If you are responsible for promotion of your presentation, create an accurate, but inviting, description. Emphasize the relevance of the content to the audience.
? Include a statement in promotional materials on how participants with disabilities can obtain disability-related accommodations for the presentation. This statement will provide an example that may be adapted for participant use in their own publications.
? Believe in the importance of your message.
? Visualize yourself giving a great speech.
? Organize your material in a way that is most comfortable to you by using a script, outline, notes, or 3 x 5 cards. Number them.
? Proofread all printed materials.
? Practice, practice, practice-by yourself and/or with someone. During practice sessions you can work out the bugs and add polish to your presentation. (Note: a rehearsal usually will run about 20% shorter than a live presentation; adjust your content accordingly.)
? As participants enter, consider providing them with 3 x 5 cards and asking them to write at least one question they have about the topic of the presentation. Read them silently as people settle in. Address the questions throughout the presentation and/or at the closing.
? Have a backup plan for delivering the pres ...