Starting Your Presentation Like a Pro

I want to make sure that you understand that the introduction to your speaker presentation is not called the opening. This introduction is also not your life biography. Largest way too many speakers that think that their life bio is what should be read before the speak curse reaches the podium. A speaker’s introduction really should not be taken lightly, if someone wants to know your bio I’m sure they can read in the program of defendant handout. The importance of the speaker’s introduction is often overlooked. Think about the introduction sets the stage for the speaker.

Here’s what your intro should answer:
- Why are you speaking about this particular subject?
- Are you qualified to speak about what you’re about to speak about?
- And of course why now?

You want to answer why the subject that you’re going to be speaking about is relevant and of the interest to the audience you’re speaking to. So you’re really answering the WI I FM to the audience what’s in it for me because that’s what your audience is asking themselves right before you reach the podium to start your speech. Of course you could always add a number of things which rule help the audience perceive you as an authority on the subject you’re about to speak about. For example mention your work experience, of life experience, awards and any other accomplishments which make you an authority to speak about this subject you’re talking about. So not only is important for you to actually write down this introduction that you want said before your speech. You might want to get a hold of who ever will be doing the introduction to your speech. Make sure they have a clear copy of what you want said before your talk starts.

People remember the beginning and end of every single interaction and talk and you want to make sure that the beginning of your talk is memorable.

Spicing Up Your Presentation

You made your checklists, did your research, organized your information, and wrote out your speech. You have all the makings of an informative presentation. The only problem is, nobody will be informed, persuaded, or otherwise moved by your presentation if it fails to capture and maintain attention.

The very first step is to pick a medium. If possible, a PowerPoint presentation is typically ideal. Not only is the digital medium unmatched in versatility, but it also allows for printed supplemental materials that serve to support your presentation as opposed to weighing it down. A well-made PowerPoint consists of clear and concise slides that are organized for maximum impact. A great PowerPoint, however, takes things a step further. Employ carefully selected images and stock video footage, sparingly-applied music and sound effects, and even an occasional nudge of humor, and you will be looking at a truly effective presentation.

Be warned! Spicing up a droll presentation is just like spicing up a bland dish: too much spice, and it becomes impossible to consume. Stock video footage can add tremendously to the value of a presentation, but throw moderation to the wind and you will find yourself with a product that spends far too much time on the peripheries and fails to effectively deliver the pertinent message. If music and sound effects are inserted judiciously, the presentation will come off as unprofessional and even obnoxious. Moderation is especially key in the use of humor; if there is a place for it, err heavily on the side of subtlety and caution.

A good rule of thumb when deciding whether or not to add something to your presentation is to ask yourself, “What am I trying to do by adding this?” For example, if the addition is meant to lighten the mood, ensure that the mood needs lightening, and that your addition is appropriately structured and placed to do so.

Simple Tips in Office Supplies to Create Killer Presentations

Presentations are what make the business world move. Presentations to the new client to make that big sell, presentations to your boss to convince him you deserve that raise, presentations to your company to sell your new idea. No matter what the task at hand, most likely a presentation will be a key part of accomplishing your goals.

That’s why it is so important to have the right office supplies – the right presentation products – to ensure a successful meeting, sales pitch and killer presentation. The first thing to consider when preparing your presentation is who is your audience. This will help determine what type of office supplies you will need to produce your presentation before the actual meeting. For example:

Meeting with your boss – many times, a simple staple or paper clip to bind the presentation will do.

Company meeting – a bound presentation using a report cover or portfolio is the minimum. Many times it’s best to use a binding machine and standard binding covers and spines to produce a professional looking document.

Big sales meeting – here you definitely want to use a bound document using a binding machine. High quality premium binding covers and binding spines translate an air of professionalism and quality in your organization to help get your presentation noticed and stand out from the crowd.

Basic staplers and paper clips are simple. For binding machines and supplies, we recommend using either GBC brand or Fellowes binding machines and supplies. Both offer a variety of manual and electric machines and punches for your every need. For that ultra professional look, we recommend using the ProClick line from GBC, or possibly a wire binding machine that has an even more finished look.

Now it’s time to think about the presentation itself. If the meeting is in your facility, you will need a large size dry erase board – we recommend the Quartet brand – and plenty of dry erase markers from Sanford. Sometimes, a board on the wall doesn’t work for an organization and they want a more mobile solution. This calls for portable easels with a dry erase surface for taking notes, also from Quartet.

Lastly, you may need multiple devices to make your presentation go smoothly. A Kensington laser pointer with built in ability to click through your presentation is a nice touch. Using high quality 3M projection screens and projectors also ensures your technology will be up to speed.

Office superstores and online office products stores typically carry the quality kinds of presentation products you need. They feature brands you can trust like Avery, ACCO, 3M, GBC, Quartet and Fellowes. Many offer next day delivery, and also carry a complete line of basic office supplies from ink and toner and paper to office binders and filing supplies. In addition, today’s new independent online office supply stores have full ranges of products for everything you need in the office today:

Office Technology Products like Logitech keyboards, Kensington mice, Hewlett Packard printers, Brother copiers and faxes and Fellowes shredders.

Office Furniture like HON desks, Innovera chairs, Global bookcases, Safco storage cabinets and Iceberg folding tables.

Janitorial Supplies, Beverages and Snacks like coffee servers, paper plates and utensils, candy, paper towels and tea bags.

Cleaning Supplies like bathroom and kitchen cleaners, mops, brooms, soap and facial tissue.

So remember, to make the best first impression possible, you need presentation products that fit the audience you are meeting with. Use these helpful tips for smooth sailing and successful business presentations.