Much is written in the pages of technology magazines about what tech tools to use on the road. When it comes to presentations, the considerations are usually presentation software (PowerPoint or Web) and hardware (laptops, projectors, etc.). But, what about presentation etiquette?
The vast majority of truly effective presenters understand that the technology you use can add value to the presentation, but is not the presentation itself. If you’re riding on slick PowerPoint graphics but forsaking content, you may be setting yourself up for a fall.
We suggest the following rules for on-the-road presentation etiquette:
* Rule number one is be prepared. Know your material completely. You should be able to give your presentation without any supporting materials, if necessary.
* Make sure the technology you use supports you. Your presentation is not about how cool your slides are, or how slick your projector is. It’s about your message. Make sure your presentation stays on track, and doesn’t become a sales pitch for your new ultralight tools (unless that’s what you’re selling).
* Lead the presentation--don’t let it lead you. How many times have you seen presenters wait for the slide transition to take place before they discuss the next topic? Talk about the cart leading the horse! You should move on to the next topic when you are ready, and have the slide transition follow you. Remember: You’re in charge, not the computer.
* Be failsafe. Should the technology fail, you should be able to go on without missing a beat. Remember the scene in Apollo 13 when the bulb in Gene Kranz’s projector goes out? He simply pushes it aside, flips up the screen, and starts working on the blackboard. Focus on what works.
* Have a back-up plan. It never hurts to carry transparencies, handouts, and chalk in addition to your PowerPoint presentation. That gives you three alternatives if any part of your system fails.
* Leave time for questions. If you have half an hour to work with, don’t use it all up with your presentation. People usually have follow-up questions. Give them the opportunity to ask them.
* Know a few jokes. Although you should focus on your message, that doesn’t mean you have to be stiff as a board. Let your personality come out, but make sure it supports your message and does not steer people away from it.
* Choose your tangents carefully. Don’t be afraid to let the presentation go to unexpected places in response to audience questions and concerns, but be aware of your time constraints and know when to bring the group back to your main message.
* Finally, practice makes perfect. The more presenting you do, the better you will become. The best way to get over performance anxiety is to perform. If it’s very difficult for you, try teaching something you know well to a group of people. You’ll find that thorough knowledge of the subject gives you the confidence to lead the group. You can then take that confidence on the road with you for presentations.

Much is written in the pages of technology magazines about what tech tools to use on the road. When it comes to presentations, the considerations are usually presentation software (PowerPoint or Web) and hardware (laptops, projectors, etc.). But, what about presentation etiquette? The vast majority of truly effective presenters understand that the technology you use can add value to the presentation, but is not the presentation itself. If you’re riding on slick PowerPoint graphics but forsaking content, you may be setting yourself up for a fall. We suggest the following rules for on-the-road presentation etiquette: * Rule number one is be prepared. Know your material completely. You should be able to give your presentation without any supporting materials, if necessary. * Make sure the technology you use supports you. Your presentation is not about how cool your slides are, or how slick your projector is. It’s about your message. Make sure your presentation stays on track, and doesn’t become a sales pitch for your new ultralight tools (unless that’s what you’re selling). * Lead the presentation--don’t let it lead you. How many times have you seen presenters wait for the slide transition to take place before they discuss the next topic? Talk about the cart leading the horse! You should move on to the next topic when you are ready, and have the slide transition follow you. Remember: You’re in charge, not the computer. * Be failsafe. Should the technology fail, you should be able to go on without missing a beat. Remember the scene in Apollo 13 when the bulb in Gene Kranz’s projector goes out? He simply pushes it aside, flips up the screen, and starts working on the blackboard. Focus on what works. * Have a back-up plan. It never hurts to carry transparencies, handouts, and chalk in addition to your PowerPoint presentation. That gives you three alternatives if any part of your system fails. * Leave time for questions. If you have half an hour to work with, don’t use it all up with your presentation. People usually have follow-up questions. Give them the opportunity to ask them. * Know a few jokes. Although you should focus on your message, that doesn’t mean you have to be stiff as a board. Let your personality come out, but make sure it supports your message and does not steer people away from it. * Choose your tangents carefully. Don’t be afraid to let the presentation go to unexpected places in response to audience questions and concerns, but be aware of your time constraints and know when to bring the group back to your main message. * Finally, practice makes perfect. The more presenting you do, the better you will become. The best way to get over performance anxiety is to perform. If it’s very difficult for you, try teaching something you know well to a group of people. You’ll find that thorough knowledge of the subject gives you the confidence to lead the group. You can then take that confidence on the road with you for presentations.