Theoretical overview
In our day to day life, we face many situations where we have to convey the information orally to a group of persons. To implement that presentation is considered as one of the most effective method. For creating and delivering good presentation, one has to acquire certain skills known as presentation skills. As per Collins Dictionary, presentation skills can be understood as the set of techniques and skills required successfully to present oral information to others. Presentation skills are being used in effective delivery of content to varied audiences. These skills generally focus on structuring of the matter, designing of slides, body language, and vocal aspects.
There are lot of discussions about the similarities and dissimilarities between an oral presentation and public speech. Although many of the experts feel that both are very similar, still we can carve out few of the differences.
- Presentations use visuals.
- Presentations are relatively informal than speeches.
- A presentation is delivered for discussing technical and routine matters.
- Presentations are delivered before a smaller group.
- Discussions and query handling is an essential component of a presentation.
- A presentation involves measuring the performance after its delivery.
- It can be delivered while sitting.
- Speaking is not necessary all the time, self-explanatory visuals can be used.
- A presentation can be delivered in group.
As far as delivery techniques and preparation by the presenter issues are concerned there exists a high level of similarity between oral presentation and public speech.
PURPOSE OF A PRESENTATION
- Provide information or giving instructions: Providing information or giving instructions to the audience is the most common purpose of a presentation. When a manager has to inform about the efforts made by their team and outcomes thereof then presentation is a good option. Similarly, for passing on instructions to a group of people attending a training program, presentations are being used. The goal here is that everyone listening to presentation clearly understands and follows the instructions.
- Convince: Another situation when a presentation is adopted as a tool of communication is for persuasion. The convincing purpose of presentation states that after attending the presentation, listeners will agree to your proposal. A sales presentation falls under this category where a salesperson tries to convince the potential buyers to place an order after the completion of the presentation.
- Entertain: Entertainment purpose of a presentation is applicable in relatively more informal situations like celebrating success, promotion parties, during induction or retirement occasion. During these situations, humour is an essential part of the presentation. A presentation can aim to fulfil all the three purposes and a good presenter can achieve all the goals simultaneously.
KEY COMPONENTS
- A topic serving the purpose of the presentation: It is one of the first steps for any presentation. Generally, the topic of presentation is assigned or known in advance to the presenter. Sometimes the presenter is asked to choose a topic. Whatever the case may be, presenter has to ensure that the chosen topic must serve the broader purpose of the presentation
- A presenter: A presenter is a person who is being assigned a responsibility to present on a pre-decided topic.
- An audience: Audience is a group of persons (relatively smaller) for whom the presentation is being organized.
- A venue or location: It is the physical place where the presentation is delivered.
- Audio- visual aids: These are the supporting aids that are being used by the presenter to increase the effectiveness of the presentation. These aids generally support the audio and visual requirements of the presentation.
- Time limit: Every presentation has a time limit for its completion. It is essential on the part of the presenter to stick to the given time limit for improving the effectiveness of the presentation.
Points to remember
- presentation skills can be understood as the set of techniques and skills required successfully to present oral information to others
- Presentation skills are being used in effective delivery of content to varied audiences.
- Presentations use visuals.
- Presentations are relatively informal than speeches.
- Speaking is not necessary all the time, self-explanatory visuals can be used.
- A presentation can be delivered in group.
- Providing information or giving instructions to the audience is the most common purpose of a presentation.
- Discussions and query handling is an essential component of a presentation.
