Presentation parameters

Congratulations and breathe a sigh of relief! You've made it through the heavy thinking, but there are still some little details to consider that can make a big difference to your presentation success.

Take a moment to consider the following factors and the ways they might impact your presentation:

Length

The length of time you've been given to speak dictates how much material and detail you can cover in your presentation. Remember to allow time for questions and interaction and stick to time limits. Nothing you have to say is more important than your audience's time.

Preparation time

Multi-tasking is an important part of being a manager, so you can't allow this presentation to take an inordinate amount of your time and attention. No matter how much you want to include Pixar-caliber animation, whiling away the hours designing world-class slides is probably not the best use of your time.

Location

Where will you be presenting? If possible, visit the location well in advance of your presentation to get a feel for the space, the acoustics, and any unique features that can hinder or enhance your delivery. Figure out the seating arrangements and determine whether you will be sitting or standing while speaking. Note the technological options available in the room and inquire as to whether any audience members will be conferenced into the presentation. If visiting is not a possibility, find out as much about the space as you can. It is better to know than to be surprised.

Technology

Technology enhances many excellent presentations, but it is also the cause of many a presentation nightmare. Don't use technology just because everyone else does it. Carefully consider if technology will help you achieve your presentation goal. And, if you choose to use technology, be sure you have a back-up plan in case something goes wrong. It's terrible to spend hours crafting a beautiful slide deck only to discover that the laptop won't boot or the file won't open. It's downright horrific if you aren't prepared to give the presentation anyway!

Audience size

A small group lends itself to a more conversational approach with lots of audience interaction. A very large crowd requires a delivery style that will reach the back row.

Context

Considering the circumstances surrounding your presentation will allow you to craft content and a delivery style that will maximize audience attention and responsiveness. Will your presentation stand alone or will it be part of a series? Will you be introduced by someone else or will you need to include your own introduction? What time of day will it be? Will people be hungry? Tired? Itching to call it a day?