As a professional speaker, you’re bound to be asked to talk on a new topic. At first, the idea seems daunting, and you immediately doubt your abilities and even perhaps experience “Imposter Syndrome” (this has happened to me countless times). You wonder how you will prepare, where to start, and how to make sure you deliver an excellent presentation. But don’t fret! In this post, we will discuss how to prepare for speaking engagements on new topics you’ve never presented before. We’ll explore step-by-step ways to ensure you feel confident and ready to deliver a speech that’ll inspire your audience.
Gather Information
The first step is to gather as much information about the topic as possible. Start by researching the subject matter. Find out everything you can to ensure that you have a good grasp of the case. Conducting interviews with people who specialize in the area of focus is also essential. You must obtain a well-rounded perspective and gain insights into the latest trends in the field.
Organize your Thoughts
Once you’ve done your research, organize your thoughts. Create an outline to help you develop the presentation’s flow, ensuring that you discuss essential points. The outline should serve as a guide to help you remain on topic throughout your presentation. A clear and consistent flow to your presentation is instrumental in delivering a cohesive and understandable message.
Practice, Practice, and Practice
Practice is key to confidence. Do a dry run of your presentation a few times before the actual day. You may videotape yourself presenting and review how you did. It can be helpful if you have a slight case of stage fright. Make sure that you practice your speech in front of people. Doing so will give you an idea of how the speech will be received and how you might improve it further.
Use Visual Aids
Visual aids such as PowerPoint presentations, props, or video clips help you communicate your message more effectively. Use images related to the topic, infographics and data, and other resources to supplement your presentation. People are likely to absorb data and information when presented in multiple formats. However, be careful not to fill your presentation completely with visual aids; they should be there to supplement your message.
Be Confident
Believe in yourself! Feeling nervous before a presentation is completely normal. But remember, you are the expert on the topic, and the audience is there to listen to you and no one else. To make a great impression in person, maintain steady eye contact and have good posture. If your presentation is virtual, test the technology beforehand to avoid any glitches during the event. Dress appropriately and ensure proper lighting. Also, take a moment to check your video background for any personal items that don’t align with your personal brand. The more confident and engaging you appear, the better the audience will understand and remember your message.
Speaking on an unfamiliar topic can be challenging- but there’s nothing to fear. Through research, preparation, practice, and organization, you will deliver an excellent presentation that engages, inspires, and educates any audience. Remember, trust in your knowledge, maintain a positive attitude, and don’t forget to enjoy the moment! As professional speakers, we must be adaptable and bring expertise in all areas. Whether speaking on new or familiar topics, you have the tools to make an impact. So, conquer that fear, take the steps outlined here, and knock that speech out of the park!
