unpacking insights: prepare to present
In the latest episode of the SWD podcast, I take listeners on a deep dive into the art of presentation preparation. What follows here are some key takeaways on the transformative power of proper prep, which I used when readying myself for a recent conference keynote.
Harness the power of practice. While you might view preparation as a straightforward task, there’s a great deal of learning that can come from it. I’m a big fan of practicing aloud and share specifics about the various ways I do this in the podcast. That said, it’s not just about creating and getting to know your content; it's also important to familiarize oneself with the environment, understand the audience's perspective, and ensure the content is visually accessible from every angle. Speaking of which…
Familiarize yourself with the space. One key takeaway is the importance of the walkthrough. By positioning myself in the room ahead of time, checking visuals from various points, and adjusting content as needed, I ensure that my presentations are not just heard but felt by everyone in the room. This ritual emphasizes the value of understanding the physical space in which one presents.
Engage with the environment. Every room tells a story. In the podcast, I describe the conference room layout—a wide arrangement with chairs fanned out, emphasizing the need for movement during my presentation. Addressing every member of the audience in this case meant physically moving to engage with them. This attention to detail can make the difference between a good presentation and a great one.
Notice facial expressions and body language. Beyond the words and visuals of a presentation lies a world of non-verbal cues. I commit to being "in the moment" during my sessions, which ensures I’m attuned to my audience's reactions. Observing facial expressions, body language, and engagement levels allows me to adjust on the fly, ensuring my content resonates in real time.
Engage the audience. The inclusion of runners with microphones and the practice of echoing audience contributions illustrate ways to better allow two-way communication and make sessions more interactive. Engaging the audience isn't just about speaking to them—it's about facilitating a dialogue where ideas flow in both directions.
Build on familiarity. Interactions with familiar faces in the audience, like a former colleague from Google and my husband, Randy, underscore the human element of presentations. Recognizing friendly faces in the audience can anchor a presenter, providing moments of comfort in what can sometimes be a nerve-wracking experience.
It’s never just what you’re presenting, but also how you present it that matters. After all, the art of data storytelling is not just about numbers—it's about connecting, engaging, and resonating with your audience. Tune in to Episode 70 of the storytelling with data podcast, “prepare to present,” to hear more about how you can elevate your next presentation.
For more episodes, check out our podcast page.
