Rock your next presentation!

Rocking your next presentation, or any presentation for that matter, will be one of the most important things you do all year. How you do it will set the tone for your future. Are you prepared? Do you know your stuff?

I just returned from an intense weekend of speaker training in beautiful Dayton, OH. After three grueling days of work, and some much needed sleep, I wanted to share with you some tips I received that can apply to you in your next presentation.

1. Know what YOU want to say

You may be quoting somebody, referencing material or in my case have a full-blow script to memorize. Make sure you know the point of whatever you are referencing and how you'd say it in your own words in case you are stuck.

2. Be the best YOU you can be.

A lot of speakers, especially when they are new, try different styles. Be yourself. No style fits you perfectly, much like there isn't anybody like you on the planet. Be yourself and create a comfort level with yourself. Practice in front of a mirror. It'll blow you mind.

3. SMILE

Seriously. Smile. And when your face hurts so much because you have been at it for an hour, do it some more.

4. Gestures

Your nonverbal gestures are going to be huge. 80% of public speaking isn't said, it's observed.

5. Be prepared

The world's most spontaneous and conversational speakers are that way for a reason. They are prepared. They look like they are lost, but they're not. Dramatic pauses speak so much louder than many words. Be prepared and rehearse. It's pretty similar to acting.

6. Don't give up- Choose your attitude.

I've woken up on the wrong side of the bed many times. Guess what. The people that you talk to DON'T CARE about anything in your private life, just that you can kill a presentation. I know you've felt this, but when you say the words "meeting," "presentation," "speech" or the dreaded "lecture," you are automatically setting a tone. Monotone. Suprise the audience by being dynamic. They'll get a lot more out of the presentation and won't look at their watch as much.

Taking these few things in mind the next time you have to present your budget or annual report can set you up for success. The more you prepare and know answers that are going to come up, the better you'll be and look. Do it. Own it. Rock it.

-Ryan E. Cole is a member of the Young Professionals of Wichita. He is a motivational speaker and coach for Generation Y members. You can check out more information on his blog or website.