PRESENTATIONS

Most engineers are terrified about giving presentations…or teaching. However this skill can be one of your greatest assets in selling your ideas…and yourself. Therefore take every opportunity to give presentations at work, clubs, church or wherever you have an opportunity. From numerous surveys, some things to remember:

How we learn How we retain knowledge
Taste 1% 10% of what we read
Touch 1.5% 20% of what we hear
Smell 3.5% 30% of what we see
Hearing 11% 50% of what we see and hear simultaneously
Sight 83% 70% of what we say as we talk
90% of what we say as we do a task

So the point is: The most effective presentations involve as many senses as possible and ideally involve participants in “hands-on” activities.
Do you recall the Elastomeric Materials presentation that we had in the TIE last year? Now do you understand why the subject of Explosive Decompression stuck with you even until now?

Some Tips for Effective Presentations:
1. Always know exactly what you are trying to accomplish (PURPOSE). That sounds obvious, but write it down in one simple sentence. Is the presentation to inform or persuade?

2. Know your audience and how to communicate your purpose effectively (DELIVERY). Do not use jargon or long words – speak to express, not impress. Simple, short sentences are most effective. The delivery must convey the purpose.

3. Motivate the listener (INVOLVEMENT). Get their attention with a strong opening. Tell them what is in it for them. Be passionate about your subject

4. Communicate the most important thing clearly (FOCUS). This should be stated at the beginning and restated at the closing. This is aligned with your purpose.

5. Use visuals effectively (EXPRESS). Most people put too much stuff on them. You should be able to read visuals laid on the floor from a standing position. List major points or concepts. Address your audience, not your visuals.

6. Practice your presentation several times aloud (PREPARATION). Use a trusted colleague, spouse or friend to evaluate your entire presentation, delivery and visuals.

7. Confidently deliver your presentation and close with your major point (IMPACT). Avoid distracting habits of speech (“ah”), posture (leaning on lectern), useless hand gestures (waving, clenching, and fumbling with an object – like popping the cap on a whiteboard marker) and maintain good eye contact!