7 Questions To Ask Before
Your Next Speech

Feeling anxious about your next speech or training session? Here are 7 questions that will help you prepare for your next presentation.

1) What do you want to happen after this presentation? What is your goal in doing this presentation? Do you have a clear idea of what you want people to do when they leave the room?

2) Will your audience have enough information to make a decision? Have you provided enough information in your presentation so key people in the room can make a decision? Have you ended your presentation with a call to action?

3) Is your presentation easy to follow? Is it laid out in a logical, easy to understand flow that persuades people to your point of view?

4) Have you avoided the use of jargon? Unless you are in a highly technical field, beware of using too many industry buzzwords. Instead, explain things in a simple, straightforward manner that makes it easy for the group to say "YES!" to whatever you are proposing. Remember, confusion is the enemy of decision.

5) Are your audiovisuals going to help or hurt you? Keep your Power Point slides to no more than seven words across each line or more than seven bullet points per slide. Also, use a font that is large enough, and clear enough, to be seen by everyone in the meeting room.

6) Are your materials prepared? Get all of your handouts printed out, stapled (if necessary) and organized prior to the meeting. If you are shipping to a hotel or another office location, send the material out early and phone to confirm its arrival.

7) Have you gotten mentally prepared? Just before a meeting, find a quiet place and take 10 slow, deep breaths to calm your nerves.

By using these seven steps before your next presentation, you will be more likely to influence people and get the success you want.