1. *No Presentation Objectives* If you don't know what your
audience should do at the end of your presentation, there is no need for you to
present. Knowing your objectives is the key to developing an effective presentation.
2. *Poor Visual Aids* Visual aids are designed to reinforce
the main points of your presentation. Without effective visuals, you are
missing a key opportunity to communicate with your audience.
3. *Ineffective Close* Closing your presentation is
extremely important. The close allows you to tie up the presentation and spell
out what you want your audience "to do". A weak close can kill a
presentation.
4. *Mediocre First Impression* Audiences evaluate a
presenter within the first 120 seconds of the presentation. Presenters who make
a bad first impression can lose credibility and diminish their ability to
effectively communicate.
5. *No Preparation* The best presenters prepare for every
presentation. Those who prepare and practice are more successful in presenting
their information and anticipating audience reaction. Practice does make
perfect!
6. *Lack of Enthusiasm* If you aren't excited about the
presentation, why should your audience be? Enthusiastic presenters are the most
effective ones around!
7. *Weak Eye Contact* As a presenter, you are trying to
communicate effectively with your audience. If you don't make eye contact with
the audience, they will not take you or your message seriously.
8. *No Audience Involvement* The easiest way to turn off an
audience is by allowing them to remain uninvolved. Use audience involvement to
gain "buy-in".
9. *Lack of Facial Expressions* Effective speakers use
facial expressions to help reinforce their messages.
10. *Sticky Floor Syndrome* There is nothing worse than a
speaker who is glued to the floor. While there is no need to wander about
aimlessly, natural movement helps hold an audience's attention.
