Presentations at Monash are expected to be engaging with a clearly focused message and purpose. You cannot simply read your written essay word for word and expect to deliver a good presentation. Instead, you need to condense your content into a few critical ideas and use language that is better suited to a verbal style. This involves simplifying complex information, using clear and conversational language, and connecting directly with your audience by being personal and engaging.
Data can’t be compelling without a good story. Think about when and where data and stories can be used to support one another.
2. Find your voice
Engage your audience with relevant stories, questions, analogies or even light humour to make your points memorable. Relating to the audience and getting them involved can maintain attention and foster connection.
3. Visual support
Guide your audience by indicating what will come next and linking ideas throughout your presentation. Using slides and animations to signpost and control flow can also be effective.
4. Non-verbal communication
Use body language and maintain eye contact to build rapport. Maintaining presence and connections with people will keep them engaged with you and your material.
5. Use verbal language instead of written language
Let your personality and enthusiasm show to connect genuinely with your audience by using a conversational style of language. Ad libbing sections of your presentation shows confidence and authenticity.
