Do's and Dont's of Oral Presentation

Do’s and Don’ts of Oral Presentations
This list is a sample of some of the visual, vocal, and verbal aspects of oralpresentations. Research has shown that an effective presentation is primarily made up of vocal (38%) and visual elements (55%), while the verbal contentcomprises 7%. Use these suggestions to ensure an effective oral presentation.
VOCAL (how you say it)
Do project your voice.Do use a variety of rates of speech. Do use pauses after a key point for emphasis. Do use a variety of pitch levelsDo change pitch level to emphasize a word. Do use a downward pitch at the end of a sentence to sound more assertive. Do replace non-words with pauses. Do allow your voice to be more animated
Don’t speak too softly. Don’t talk too fast or stay at the same speedDon’t be afraid of a moment of silence. Don’t be monotone. Don't use an upward pitch at the end of asentence, unless it is a question. Don’t use non-words like umm’s, ahh’s or er’s. Don’t be afraid of using new levels of energy
VISUAL (nonverbal)
Do use direct eye contact to connect with listeners. Do look calm and confident under pressure. Do move purposefullyDo be aware of your posture. Do practice using new gesturesDo allow your hands to fall to your sides when you are not using themDo remember to smile. Do attend to other team members who are speaking
Don’t look over their heads or let your eyes dart around. Don’t roll your eyes, frown or make expressions of exasperation. Don’t sway or pace. Don’t slouch or stand too still and appear stiff. Don’t keep your hands in any one place for too long. Don’t hold an object in your hands unless you plan to use it. Don’t be expressionless or look unhappy. Don’t look away, talk, fidget or doodle when other team members are speaking
VERBAL (what you say)
Do sound positive. Do complete each word to be clear and articulate. Do plan and memorize your opening and closing statements. Do practice Q & A with sample questions. Do determine the role of the team leader in the Q & A section.
Don’t use qualifiers: maybe, perhaps. Don’t swallow words or trail off at the end of a sentence
LOGISTICS
Find out as much as possible about the room, seating arrangements, and the location of the overhead projector(s). Find out how soon you can get into the room prior to presentation to set up. Decide where each team member is going to be seated. Know the dress code of your audience and wear clothes that are appropriate. Discuss what each team member will be wearing. Plan the leadership role of the team leader. Practice looking like a cohesive team if you are presenting with others. Practice transitions between speakers. Assign a time keeper within the team. Be aware of your time requirements and finish on time. Enter and exit gracefully. Practice using the overhead and how to quietly change transparencies. Use tape to make a guide to place transparencies easily. Cover or turn off the overhead projector when not projecting an image on the screen. Bring a spare projector bulb. Drink liquids at room temperature