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Dardis Key to Success: Presentation Skills

By | The Dardis difference | No Comments

In part three of our Dardis keys to success series, we highlight the importance of presentation skills. This core component of the Dardis Academy training ensures that our interns feel educated and confident to present the Dardis product to prospective clients and then handle questions and overcome objections, if needed. Solid presentation skills strongly contribute to a successful career – knowing how to effectively communicate your key messages to your target audience, whether in a conference room or a large meeting room, earns you credibility and buy-in.

An effective presentation is more than a flashy PowerPoint. Oftentimes, crowded slides and over-the-top graphics actually distract your audience, so instead, focus on your content and your delivery, no matter what presentation format you follow.  As a presenter, you have to win over your audience and draw them into your message to really make an impact. When our interns present to business professionals in their community, they have the opportunity to practice their delivery and discover what works and what doesn’t. These firsthand experiences pave the way for quality, well-organized presentations in their future careers.

For practical ideas on how to nail a presentation in the first 60 seconds, check out this LinkedIn blog post that recommends you:

  • Plan your opening in advance: You should know exactly how you are going to open your speech. Look for ways to signal that you are a person with a valuable message to share.
  • Prepare the room in advance: If you like to move around, give yourself room to move, and you need an aid like a clicker, make sure it’s easy to access. The worst thing you can do is to step in front and start fumbling around.
  • Expect the unexpected: No matter what happens, your role is to remain calm and composed. If you do this, you will win over the room.
  • Be immediately interesting: Even if you have housekeeping notes or details to go over with the audience, don’t start with these. First, build a rapport and demonstrate that you are both in control and worth their attention.
  • Use terror to your advantage: As part of your planned opening, say something that either acknowledges your anxiety or makes it seem like good acting.

Equipped with executive-level training experience from Dardis Academy, Dardis interns have the tools to deliver the high-quality, captivating presentations that will move business – and their careers – forward.

Photo credit: World Travel & Tourism Council via Flickr

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