ENTR 3111 - Presentation Skills

Presentation Delivery Techniques (HBS Guide)

General Tips

• Project enthusiasm, interest, and confidence through your delivery.

• Smile to create a positive atmosphere.

• Use appropriate volume and projection:

  • Avoid speaking too quickly or slowly.

  • Maintain a balance between loud and soft speaking.

• Pronounce words clearly; avoid informal speech and slang (e.g., "talkin" vs. "talking").

• Steer clear of filler words (e.g., "um", "er", "ah").

• Substitute long words for shorter ones to enhance clarity.

• Vary your speaking pace and incorporate pauses for effect.

Eye Contact and Engagement

• Maintain eye contact with your audience to foster connection and engagement.

• Avoid reading directly from notes or slides; use them as cues to recall talking points.

• Be knowledgeable about the material to engage confidently.

• Use natural gestures; avoid distracting actions like rocking or tapping.

• Do not turn your back to the audience; aim to face them at all times.

• When presenting as a group, have the presenting student take front stage, while others remain to the sides.

Appearance

• Dress at least 25% better than others in the room to convey professionalism.

Ways to Look More Confident During a Presentation (By Kasia Wezowski, HBR)

Body Language Techniques

WIDE STANCE

• Standing with feet shoulder-width apart signifies confidence and control.

PALMS UP

• This gesture communicates openness and sincerity, making it relatable to the audience.

• Example: Oprah Winfrey's use of palms up to connect with her audience.

THE BOX

• The "Clinton Box" technique involves containing hand movements within an imaginary box, promoting a more trustworthy appearance.

• This is a strategy to maintain controlled body language during speaking.

HOLDING THE BALL

• Simulating the holding of a basketball conveys dominance and confidence, making the speaker seem in control.

• Example: Steve Jobs frequently employed this gesture.

PYRAMID HANDS

• Clasping hands in a pyramid shape indicates relaxation and self-assuredness.

• Caution: Overuse can appear arrogant, so balance is key.

PALMS DOWN

• Using palms-down gestures projects authority, strength, and assertiveness.

• Example: Barack Obama effectively used this gesture for calming post-enthusiastic moments in speeches.