INTRODUCTION

Whether you are working, interning, or still in school, presenting in a foreign language is always a significant challenge. The 10 presentation tips based on the experience of an English teacher below will help elevate your public speaking skills in a foreign language to a new level.

CONTENT

1. Controlling Body Language: 

Experts point out that 55% of communication behavior does not involve spoken language. During a presentation, you should strive to control your body language. For example, avoid pacing too much, limit fidgeting with your pen, refrain from dragging your feet while moving, do not adjust your clothing frequently, absolutely avoid yawning, and do not block the audience's view of visual aids. Make an effort to ensure that every gesture you make during the presentation is carefully controlled.

2. Tell a story:

Everyone enjoys hearing and sharing captivating stories, so you might consider starting your presentation by telling a moving story to create empathy. The more personal the story, the more persuasive it is, but it doesn't necessarily have to be your own; it can be someone else's. The story can take place in the past or express a desire for the future, as long as it captivates the audience and keeps them focused on what you are presenting.

3. Visualizing images: 

Visualizing images can convey a message equivalent to a thousand words. Images also create a stronger impression than written text. A common mistake people make when presenting is using too many words in their illustrations. If you show the audience too much text, they will focus on reading the information instead of paying attention to what you are presenting. Additionally, visually engaging and lively illustrations help the audience remember what you are conveying better, whether it is general information, data, or storytelling. If you know how to incorporate images into your speech, the audience will find it easier to absorb the content.

4. Eye contact:

Eye contact is another aspect of body language. If you are using notes during your presentation, you should not read them straight through from beginning to end. These notes should only consist of brief keywords to help you remember the content of your presentation, while you should look at the audience as much as possible during the presentation. When interacting with the audience, you should not focus on one spot but rather scan around the room. Occasionally, you can pause your gaze on one person before continuing to look elsewhere. This will help make your presentation feel more like a friendly conversation. Avoid staring too long at a specific individual, such as a professor, reporter, or judge, as it may make them feel uncomfortable.

5. Interacting with the audience:

Not everyone has the ability to concentrate intensely. An average adult can only focus for about 8 to 20 minutes, or even less. Therefore, if you create opportunities for the audience to move their hands, feet, or minds while you are presenting, it will help them feel more comfortable and attentive to the content you are delivering. For example, you can ask questions for everyone to answer or request the audience to raise their hands to vote. You could also ask them to close their eyes to imagine the story you are about to tell. Whatever you do, don’t forget to create surprises so that the audience is not distracted by their phones or dozing off, but instead focuses on what you are saying.

6. Speak slowly but surely

Check your English in a few minutes. Learn more. Speaking slowly during a presentation is never easy, but you need to practice this habit starting now. Speaking slowly will help you pronounce words more clearly. You also shouldn't worry too much about your pronunciation or grammar, as long as the audience can understand what you are saying. As long as you make an effort to ensure that the content of your speech is clear and comprehensive, the audience will definitely be able to grasp what you are presenting, even if your language skills are still limited.

7. The simpler, the better:

Aside from weekends and holidays, everything in life tends to drag on longer than acceptable. Just think about it: classes, meetings, or flights often last longer than you wish, never passing quickly. If you convey information in a lengthy manner, the audience won't be able to remember everything. You should distill your ideas to make them as concise and simple as possible in your presentation.

8. Pay attention to the conclusion and Express your gratitude:

Your conclusion is just as important as the introduction. You might ask yourself what message you want to convey to the audience in order to effectively wrap up your presentation. Try to think of a unique closing statement that the audience will remember when they get home. 

Since the audience has taken their valuable time to listen to you, don't forget to thank everyone.

CONCLUSION

It’s not difficult to make an effective speech. Start planning now to fully enjoy these new experiences! The content above will help you plan your travels to interesting destinations. 

THANK YOU!