Transcript The Art of Oral Presentation

The art of oral presentation is a skill that can ensure
effective communication is achieved. A well
organised and presented oral presentation will
engage the audience and portray the desired
message without losing any intended meanings.
When commencing a presentation, always begin
with an introduction of who you are. All good
presentations will then follow a common formula,
similar to any written report that you have ever
written. Tell the audience what you are going to tell
them during the presentation, an introduction as
such. Follow this by telling the audience. Always
remember what the objective of the presentation is
and the main points that are attempting to be
made. Once this is completed, finish the
presentation by telling the audience what they have
just been told (Newcastle University 2007).
Once the content has been designed for the oral
presentation, the next most important factor in
mastering the art of oral presentations is the delivery.
During the oral presentation, always speak clearly and
consider acoustics of the presentation environment.
Acoustics can make an impact on the delivery and
whether the audience are able to hear what is being
said. Always emphasise important points of the
presentation through the use of deliberate pauses at
key moments of the presentation. To ensure that the
presentation maintains the attention of the audience,
use the appropriate speed and pitch of voice whilst
maintaining a natural tone of speech (The University of
Hong Kong).
Body language is another important component of
delivering an oral presentation. Use hand gestures
throughout the presentation, in particular to
emphasise important points. Stage presence will also
assist in presenting in a fashion that will capture the
audience. Maintain stage presence throughout the
presentation, and consider avoiding bad habits such as
pacing and unnecessary moving (Zivkovic 2014).
By following these simple suggestions, the art of the
oral presentation can be mastered.
Newcastle University 2007, Communication Skills – Making Oral
Presentations, viewed 16th May 2015,
http://lorien.ncl.ac.uk/ming/dept/Tips/present/comms.htm
The University of Hong Kong, English for Professional
Communication, viewed 16th May 2015,
http://www4.caes,hk/epc/presentation
Zivkovic, S (2014), The Importance of Oral Presentations for
University Students, Mediterranean Journal of Social Science Vol
5, No 19