The fastest way to get noticed at work is to become a competent and confident presenter.Whether it is one on one, small groups or larger audiences it is a core skill to getting noticed at work.
Use the questionnaire below to find out what is working for you and what is not.
To be a more effective presenter, it is useful to examine your present skills. The following evaluation can help identify the areas on which to focus in order to increase your competence. Please read each statement and circle the number that best describes you.
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The way I approach a presentation is….
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Never – Always
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1.
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I identify some basic objectives before planning a presentation.
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1 2 3 4 5
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2.
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I analyse the values, needs and limitations of my audience.
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1 2 3 4 5
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3.
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I write down some main ideas first in order to build a presentation around them.
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1 2 3 4 5
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4.
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I incorporate both a preview and a review of the main ideas.
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1 2 3 4 5
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5.
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I develop an introduction that will catch the attention of my audience and still provide the necessary background information.
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1 2 3 4 5
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6.
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My conclusion refers back to the introduction and, if appropriate, contains a call to action statement.
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1 2 3 4 5
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7.
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The visual aids I use are carefully prepared, simple, easy to read and make an impact.
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1 2 3 4 5
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8.
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The number of visual aids will enhance, not detract from my presentation.
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1 2 3 4 5
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9.
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If my presentation is persuasive, I support it with logical arguments.
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1 2 3 4 5
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10.
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I use anxiety to fuel the enthusiasm of my presentation not hold me back.
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1 2 3 4 5
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11.
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I ensure the benefits suggested to my audience are clear and compelling.
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1 2 3 4 5
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12.
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I communicate ideas enthusiastically.
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1 2 3 4 5
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13.
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I rehearse so there is a minimum use of notes and maximum attention paid to my audience.
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1 2 3 4 5
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14.
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My notes contain only key words so I avoid reading from a manuscript.
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1 2 3 4 5
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15.
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My presentations are rehearsed standing up and using visual aids.
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1 2 3 4 5
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16.
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I prepare answers to anticipated questions and practice replying to them.
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1 2 3 4 5
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17.
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I arrange seating if appropriate and check audio visual equipment in advance of the presentation.
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1 2 3 4 5
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18.
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I main good eye contact with the audience at all times.
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1 2 3 4 5
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19.
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My gestures are natural and not restricted by anxiety.
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1 2 3 4 5
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20.
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My voice is strong and clear and not monotonous.
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1 2 3 4 5
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TOTAL SCORE =
- If you scored between 80 – 100, you are an accomplished speaker who simply needs to maintain basic skills through practice.
- If your total score was between 60 – 80, you have the potential to become a highly effective presenter.
- If you score was between 40 – 60, you have great potential.
- If you scored between 30 – 40, you should show dramatic improvement with practice.
- If your total score was below 30, roll up your sleeves and dig in! It may not be easy, but you can make excellent progress if you try.
Next Steps:
Whatever your score look back over the questionnaire and decide which one thing if you were to improve it would make the biggest difference. Then take action with that one thing.
Here’s to your success,
Hilary
