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Bringing Technical Presentations to Life

by Rob Sherman    

It is no small wonder that it was downhill from there. He had no enthusiasm, a monotone voice. His already defeated eyes were glued to his paper and his Power Point presentation.

After the presentation, I decided that I would see if the presenter would welcome some unsolicited suggestions. To my surprise, not only did he welcome the review, but he came alive when we talked one on one. This seemingly boring presenter had a wonderful dry sense of humor when speaking one on one. In fact, he knew all along that his presentation would be dry and uninspiring. So, where was this wry personality on the platform?  “I’m an actuary,” he said when I asked him about this obvious divergence.  “That’s what they expect me of me.”

For once, I was speechless. How could someone with such an inviting personality make a conscious choice to hide that warmth from his audience?  How could someone honestly believe that the audience expected him to bury his head in his notes and slides? 

The fact is that many technical speakers believe that the uninspiring presentation model is the only “correct” model for a technical presentation.  I know one major company that perpetuates this myth by requiring all speakers to stand behind the lectern and not stray from the written word.

There are enormous opportunities for those who disregard this model and choose to use simple speaking tools to make their presentations enjoyable and a positive learning experience for their audience. If you too want to stand out from the rest of the technical presenters, here are a few ideas to get you started.

Start strong

Many speakers begin with a polite, “Thank you very much for that kind introduction.” Rather trite, don’t you think?  Instead, start with a bang not a whimper.  Give them a startling statistic, an “in your face” statement, an interesting quote, a news headline . . . something powerful that will get their attention immediately.

Never apologize. If you are tired, unhappy, depressed, worried, or upset, your audience probably won’t know it unless you draw attention to it.

Be yourself

Many technical presenters are introverts and attempt to avoid speaking because they think that they need to alter their “normal” speaking voice.  While it is true that a quiet person must raise his or her voice when speaking to an audience, you do not have to greatly alter your normal speaking voice on the platform.

In fact, to attempt a wholesale conversion of your persona while speaking is a serious mistake. You cannot connect with an audience without authenticity. Authenticity is lost when you aren’t yourself on the platform.

So speak conversationally. Allow your dry wit to come through if that is truly who you are.  Be yourself.

Network with your audience before the program

Take advantage of the time before your presentation to mingle with your audience. Make it a point to “work the room” – don’t arrive two minutes before your speech and leave immediately after it. Your audience wants to meet you. Give them this opportunity.

Use relaxation techniques before saying a word

Every speaker experiences some anxiety before speaking. Use the time before your presentation to relax. Breathe deeply from your diaphragm for two minutes. Simple exercises such as shrugging the shoulders or tensing/releasing your body are helpful. Listening to music in the car helps relieve pressure. Do whatever it takes to relieve some of the anxiety that accompanies every speech.

Use a “keyword” outline to make your presentation

It has been said that the last time someone read to you it was your mother and she was trying to get you to sleep. Instead of reading, use a “keyword” outline. These keywords will prompt complete thoughts as you speak. Look down at the keyword, look into the eyes of the audience - and then speak.

Use your own stories to illustrate a point

You have many stories that you could use from your experiences to illustrate points. Most technical speakers fail to relate personal stories. You may not realize it, but your audience wants to connect with you. They can connect more easily if you tell your own stories . . . real life experiences that illustrate points. And if you don’t think you have any interesting personal stories to tell, you aren’t looking deeply enough. They are there for the telling.

Find passion in your topic

This may seem difficult for a technical presentation, but I’ve talked with many technical presenters one on one and you can feel their passion for their topic . . . off the platform.

You want your audience to do something as a result of your presentation.  Whatever you want them to do, there is a better chance that they will do it if you show that you are passionate about your subject. An added benefit is that your fears will dissipate when you are truly excited about your subject matter. Speak with passion . . . and you will inspire others. 

Don’t end with questions and answers

Most technical presentations end with a question and answer session.  Instead, tell the audience that you will take questions and then say, “We will move to our closing point.” After the Q&A, tell a story that ties in to your main theme. Or summarize the points made during the presentation.  Conclude with a quote or call to action. Whatever you end with, make it memorable. 

Presenting is an acquired skill

Many technical presenters believe that speaking before groups does not take any special training or skill development. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Effective speakers learn how to present in the same way in which they learn the tools needed to develop their own technical skills. Speaking is like any learned skill. It takes time and practice.   

Every speaking opportunity is an opportunity to move others to action. You can accomplish more in a 60-minute presentation to the right group of decision-makers than you can sit behind your desk for a year. Take advantage of this opportunity by learning the skills needed to make exciting technical presentations. You’ll see the difference on the faces of your audience . . . and on your bottom line.


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Rob Sherman, Esq., Sherman Leadership Group.