In my early days of making presentations, I always thought that notes of presentation or speaker?s notes are not necessary since I have prepared very thoroughly. But as my schedule becomes more hectic due to increasing work commitments and projects, I begin to rely more on speaker notes (as my preparation time for my various presentations gets shorter). For most people then, having something in front of them is essential. Lets first examine the roles of Speaker notes

Role of Speaker?s notes

a) To boost confidence. In the event you do not need it, having something there is a comfort and you could easily refer to when asked about statistics and other information during Q&A

b) To act as a guide to what you will say and what order you will say in

c) To assist you to say it in the best possible way by producing the right variety, pace, emphasis, etc as you go along

The Five Immutable Laws of Developing Speaker?s Notes:

1) Legibility is essential. Imagine having notes that you can?t read off from! As a guide, you must use sufficiently large type or writing and avoid adding tiny, untidy embellishments. These notes must be suitable to be used standing up and you must be able to see them when they are placed on the podium or on the table (it is quite a distance when trying to read standing up)

2) The material for your notes must be chosen carefully to suit your purposes. Some people favor small cards, others larger sheets. I personally favor small card or folded paper (B3 size) so that I can conceal them. Compare giving a presentation whilst holding an A4 sized paper versus cards which can be concealed in your palm. Which one comes across as a presenter that is well prepared, confident and credible? You get the drift?

3) Use one side only of the card/paper. This allows amendment and addition if necessary and makes the total package easier to follow

4) Always number the pages of your material. When ?Murphy?s Law strikes, yes you will drop or lose your materials.

5) Separate different types of notes: for example, regarding what you intend to say and how (that is, emphasis etc) and remember to use colors and symbols to help you find your way.

The Author of this article is an experienced presenter and a champion story teller. He has immense interest in topics on public speaking, leadership, the art of negotiation, internet marketing strategies, investing and personal success This following article is adapted/extension from/of his new ebook: "How to Develop Great Presentation Skills". If you like the tools to be able to improve your presentation skills by 100 times, YES 100 times please visit http://www.greatpresentationskills.com

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