Just when you think you are done . . . you have finished
writing your presentation, you have created fabulous slides and handouts, you have analyzed
room conditions and more . . . What could possibly be left to do? In some cases, it may be time
to ask yourself if your presentation would be helped by a "presentation assistant". The more
complicated a presentation, the more likely a presentation may prove helpful.
When we speak about an assistant, we speak of
someone who can provide an extra set of hands, who knows how to juggle the balls you don't
have time to . . . A presentation assistant can pass out handouts, advance slides, or assist with
group exercises.
Tips for using a presentation assistant
- Select an assistant with whom you can work: someone you know and trust.
- Select an assistant who is familiar with your presentation or who can get that way.
Set up a meeting and walk through your entire presentation, several times. Identify
points at which the assistant should go to the next slide, turn up lights, or pass out
appropriate handouts.
- Work out unobtrusive signals for communication.
- And most importantly, when you deliver the presentation, make sure to introduce your assistant.
Basics
Delivery
