What is the best structure for a speech?
Tips on speaking to persuade
Ok, so here’s what I’ve got on my list as ‘technical presentation best practice’ (if there is such a thing?). I hope it helps you with your technical presentation and if I have missed anything, please do leave your own hints and experiences in the comments at the end of this post.
1. Use a structure that explains and positions the presentation and project at the beginning, gives the detail in the middle, and concludes with a summary of main points and actions going forward
2. Tailor your content and language to your audience. The topic may be technical, but are they?
3. Display complex facts, theories and diagrams in multiple ways. For example as graphs, tables, lists or videos – we all learn and take in information in different ways, so give your audience the best chanc possible to take in your messages!
4. Ask rhetorical questions or gain input from your audience. If your speech is especially long, or without too many highlights, this is a great way to keep your audience engaged and to discover any areas that need covering in more detail.
5. If there is too much to cover, or not enough time for you to go into full details on every area of the project, why not include a slide or handout with additional resources on it? This will help your audience to understand your topic more fully, research it in their own time and will help to keep your speech or presentation at the top of their minds for days to come!
