How to give a strong and effective presentation in English.
For many of us, public speaking is a hurdle we find difficult to overcome. Add to that the fact of presenting in another language and for many it becomes too daunting a task.
Fortunately, you can learn how to give presentations with confidence even if it's in another language!
With these 5 tips you will impress everyone during your next presentation.
1. Lead your audience.
Your audience will be able to follow and appreciate your presentation better if you signpost throughout. Use a variety of language to introduce the topics, outline the arguments or instructional points in your presentation and in your conclusion.
Tip: Arm yourself with signposting expressions to start your presentation in English:
| Introduction: | How to start a presentation in English |
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| Points | |
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| Changing topic | |
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| Referring backwards and forwards | |
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| Concluding: | How to end a presentation in English |
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For example
Firstly, I would like to explain what has happened in the last 3 months. I would now like to turn to my second point about the areas that need attention and improvements. Now let’s look at the implementation of new actions. For my last point I would like to discuss the delegation of tasks.
2. Be persuasive: use emotion.
Nobody likes to listen to a monotonous tone filled with uninteresting terms. Whether you’re winning a client or convincing an employee, get them engrossed!
TIP: Practise your intonation and use persuasive expressions!
| Focusing attention | |
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| Adding attitude | |
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3. Keep it informative and relevant.
When presentations and subjects go off course, you lose the attention of listeners. Don’t get side-tracked. Get straight to the point.
TIP: Find expressions that explain your point accurately! Idioms are useful in these situations, for example:
- When the meeting runs over scheduled time and you don't have much time left you could say: I'll keep this point short as we are running against the clock.
- If you want to summarise a point you could say: Well, in a nutshell.
4. Answer questions effectively.
The end of the presentation usually comes with some questions that need to be answered spontaneously. You'll need time to think to prepare your response.
TIP: Equip yourself with phrases that give you some time and allow you to think and formulate a good answer!
| Answer questions | during a presentation in English |
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5. Stay confident and smile!
Giving presentations in your own language can be tricky enough, but having to give one in another language can be ever more daunting and will no doubt play with your confidence.
TIP: Prepare in advance, practise at least twice and don’t forget to smile!
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Do you need help with your presentation skills?
Presenting is something you can learn so be aware that you will become better and better at it as you gain experience.
Are your language skills the biggest obstacle to be able to present spontaneously? Then you can consult one of our language coaches on Squidll.
Together you can prepare your presentation, broaden your vocabulary, practise your text until you are confident enough to give your presentation.
Sign up on Squidll, find a coach who fits your needs and start today on Squidll.
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