No one is ever really fully prepared for a class presentation, more so if you’re a full fledged introvert. However, by following some simple tips, you can make the process a little less daunting. Below are four ways to help you get ready for your next presentation in class.
1) Practice, Practice, Practice
This one may seem like a no-brainer, but practicing your presentation is key. For most introverts, conversing with people that aren’t familiar can be an struggle. It’ll be extremely helpful if you practice to build your confidence and make you more comfortable when giving your presentation. It’s also a good idea to practice in front of someone else so that you can get feedback on how you’re doing.
2) Know Your Material
This goes hand in hand with practicing. Make sure you know your presentation templates inside and out. Not only will this help you to feel more confident when giving your presentation, but it will also make the process go more smoothly.
For good presentation slides and templates that you and your class can use as reference, try Venngage.
3) Be Prepared for Questions
Most presentations will include a time for questions from the audience. Make sure you are prepared to answer any questions that may come up. You don’t want to be caught off guard and not know how to answer a question.
4) Get There Early
When you get to class early, it gives you some time to settle yourself and prepare for your presentation. If you have extra time before your presentation is due to start, use that time to relax and collect your thoughts and make a presentation outline. Arriving early will also give you a chance to talk one-on-one with the presenter before you go on. This can be helpful in getting any last-minute tips or advice. by following these tips, you can help to make your next class presentation a little less stressful.
5) Know When to Start Your Presentation
Most presentations are given when everyone has returned from break. However, if your class starts early or you’re in a different time zone, this may not always be an option. Make sure that when you are given the opportunity to present that you are ready to do it at that moment. Most professors will not wait for more than a few minutes.
6) Know When to Be Quiet
This may seem simple and a natural response or demeanor for most introverts, but you have to know when it’s time to be quiet and let others talk. Recognize the discussion points in your live presentation, and do not get carried away with tangents or other stories. This can be a hard one for many people who are very passionate about their topic, but this can be an advantage for you as an introvert. Use this as an opportunity to let others speak and for your to take a breather.
7) Know When to Finish Your Presentation
As with knowing when to start your presentation, knowing when to finish is one of those important presentation skills. Usually, professors will give a predetermined time limit that you have to stick to. If the professor gives fifteen minutes then only go over that time by a minute or two at most. If your professor does not set a time limit for presentations, ask them how long you should be.
8) Know When to Impress
Many people think that the best way to impress an audience is with fancy language or big words. This isn’t necessarily true. The goal in getting ready for a presentation in class is to make sure everyone learns something, not to show off your intelligence. Save the big words for another time and stick to language and infographics that everyone can understand.
9) Take a Breath
When you’re giving a presentation to people you don’t really know, it’s natural to feel nervous. However, don’t let that nervousness get the best of you. One way to help calm yourself down is to take a few deep breaths before you start your presentation and remember everything that you’ve practiced. This will help to clear your mind and help you focus on what you need to say.
10) Stay Calm and Relaxed
This may be easier said than done, but try to stay calm and relaxed when giving your presentation. This means avoiding distractions and staying on track. It can be tough to do, but with practice, it becomes easier.
This will help you to appear more confident and will make the process a little less stressful. Your introverted self might be screaming on the inside, but try your best not to get the jitters get the best of you, and let what you want to say in your presentation take center stage.
11) Focus on the Presentation
This is another tip that can make it easier to stay calm and relaxed. When you focus on what you’re doing, you’ll be less likely to think about other things like how well your presentation went or whether everyone is enjoying it.
12) Relax
No matter how prepared you are, there is always an element of stress when giving a presentation. Do your best to relax and focus on making the presentation informative. By following the tips above, you won’t have any problems presenting your material in class.
In Conclusion
By following these tips, you can prepare yourself for your next class presentation. Note that everyone is different and some of these tips may work better for you than others. Be sure to find what works best for you and practice, practice, practice!
