Speaker Checklist for Effective Presentations

Engagement

• Avoid starting the presentation stating, “Hi my name is… Today I’ll be talking about…”
• Engage the learning at the beginning of the training.
  • Pose a question
  • Share a story: historical, personal, imaginative
  • Use an image: picture, video, comic
• Share the “why” or purpose of the training; How will it benefit the learner?
• Create at least one opportunity for learner collaboration throughout the training:
  • Turn and Talk: Pose a question and have partners share their answers
  • Participants respond on a shared document or in a chat box
  • Learners “teach back” the new information to each other
  • Groups work together to respond to specific scenarios
  • Live poll to collect group data
• Allocate time for Q&A.

Powerpoint

• Avoid using text only and long paragraphs in your slides.
• Utilize images that support your key points.
• Ensure the font, colors and size of the text can be read from the back of a room.
• Spell check and proof-read slides.

Presentation Tips

• Avoid reading the slides.
• Practice slow, clear delivery.
• Be aware of your nonverbal communication.
  • Create eye contact with audience
  • Positive tone
  • Stand and move around the room, if possible
  • Read the room for questions or confusion
• Do not include commercial sales within your presentation.
• Relax, breathe and have fun!