Fearless Public Speaking and Compelling PowerPoint

Last week, I let you know about our exciting new public speaking course

. This is a highly interactive course where you’ll record and upload your own video presentations, so you really put what you learn into practice. The course has just started, but you can still sign up or find out further information about it. The ability to communicate effectively and give a great PowerPoint presentation are two key weapons in just about any professional’s arsenal. This course will not only give you the relevant theory and technique, it will allow you the opportunity to put that technique into practice in your own recorded presentations. Course presenter Greg Ferenstein will then give a critique on your presentations. That’s the most comprehensive learning experience you could ask for, and because it’s all online, you can complete the course without having to leave home—your couch is your campus! Greg Ferenstein is himself a sought-after public speaker, author, and educator. As an author, he writes in the areas of technology, business, and politics. As an educator, he designs college curricula that helps improve teamwork, communication, and technological skills. He holds a Master’s Degree in Mathematical Behavioral Sciences, and has made past contributions to CNN, Mashable, Fast Company, and The Huffington Post. So, to the course details:

Fearless Public Speaking and Compelling PowerPoint with Greg Ferenstein Sessions: 12 structured lessons, with 3 live webinars Cost: $29.95 Sign up for Fearless Public Speaking and Compelling PowerPoint here

Full details of the course—including a video of Greg sharing more information on what to expect and a lesson plan

—are now available. Here’s a more in-depth look at the structure of the course: First Week: Presentation Basics

Lesson 1: Introduction and modern PowerPoint
Lesson 2: Watch Greg’s critiques of your videos
Lesson 3: Pictures
Lesson 4: Watch Greg’s critiques of your videos
Lesson 5: Live Q&A

Second Week: PowerPoint

Lesson 1: Organization
Lesson 2: Watch Greg’s critiques of your videos
Lesson 3: Evidence
Lesson 4: Watch Greg’s critiques of your videos
Lesson 5: Live Q&A

Third Week: Practical Communications

Lesson 1: Brevity
Lesson 2: Watch Greg’s critiques of your videos
Lesson 3: Spice: style, humor, and memorization
Lesson 4: Watch Greg’s critiques of your videos
Lesson 5: Live Q&A

The course has now begun, but as with all our courses it will remain online indefinitely, and you’ll receive at least 12 months’ notice if it’s ever removed. Even so, it’s worth your while to sign up right now, in order to benefit from the personal attention and critique that Greg is offering to students who participate in this debut run of the course.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Fearless Public Speaking and Compelling PowerPoint

How can I overcome my fear of public speaking?

Overcoming the fear of public speaking, also known as glossophobia, requires practice and preparation. Start by understanding your topic thoroughly and preparing a well-structured speech. Practice your speech multiple times in front of a mirror or a small audience. This will help you gain confidence and reduce anxiety. Additionally, focus on your breathing and body language. Deep, controlled breathing can help calm your nerves, while positive body language can boost your confidence.

How can I make my PowerPoint presentation more compelling?

To make your PowerPoint presentation more compelling, focus on the design and content. Use a clean, professional design with high-quality images and graphics. Avoid cluttering your slides with too much text or information. Instead, use bullet points or short sentences to convey your message. Incorporate multimedia elements like videos or animations to engage your audience. Lastly, rehearse your presentation to ensure a smooth delivery.

What are some effective public speaking techniques?

Effective public speaking techniques include maintaining eye contact with your audience, using gestures and body language to emphasize points, varying your voice tone and pitch to keep the audience engaged, and using visual aids like PowerPoint presentations to support your speech. Additionally, storytelling can be a powerful technique to connect with your audience on an emotional level.

How can I engage my audience during a presentation?

Engaging your audience during a presentation can be achieved by asking questions, telling stories, using humor, and incorporating interactive elements like polls or quizzes. It’s also important to show enthusiasm for your topic, as your passion can be contagious and inspire your audience to pay attention.

How can I handle questions from the audience during a presentation?

When handling questions from the audience, listen carefully to the question, repeat it for the benefit of the entire audience, and then provide a concise, clear answer. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to admit it and offer to find out the information later.

How can I improve my PowerPoint skills?

Improving your PowerPoint skills involves learning about the various features and functionalities of the software. This includes understanding how to use templates, insert and format text, images, and multimedia, create animations and transitions, and use presenter view. There are numerous online tutorials and courses available that can help you enhance your PowerPoint skills.

What should I avoid in a PowerPoint presentation?

Avoid using too much text, complicated graphs, or low-quality images in your PowerPoint presentation. Also, avoid using distracting animations or transitions, reading directly from the slides, or overloading your presentation with too many slides.

How can I manage my time effectively during a presentation?

Effective time management during a presentation involves planning your content carefully, rehearsing your presentation to ensure it fits within the allotted time, and using a timer or clock to keep track of time during the presentation. If you’re running out of time, be prepared to skip less important points and focus on your key messages.

How can I make my speech more persuasive?

Making your speech more persuasive involves understanding your audience’s needs and interests, presenting clear and compelling arguments, using evidence and examples to support your points, and using rhetorical devices like repetition, analogies, and rhetorical questions.

How can I reduce anxiety before a presentation?

Reducing anxiety before a presentation can be achieved through various techniques such as deep breathing exercises, visualization, positive self-talk, and thorough preparation and rehearsal. It can also be helpful to arrive early at the venue to familiarize yourself with the environment and set up your materials.