Claudia Raab's Blog

I received a phone call from one of my clients yesterday letting me know that she had indeed received an invitation to give a talk at a specific conference she was wanting (and preparing) to speak at for two years!

She was over the moon since speaking at that particular conference is a terrific opportunity for her to showcase her skills and expertise and, at the same time, bring her one step closer to her goal to establish herself as an expert - one reason why she took up coaching with Raab & Raab.  She knew speaking in public helps tremendously to improve your professional image. However,  being a very shy person who used to avoid giving presentations she was determined to overcome her fear of public speaking to achieve her goal.

With the conference planning being in an early stage she also got the chance to select a particular Time Slot for her presentation. Her question: When would be the best time to give her speech?

What an opportunity! Why? Your allocated Time Slot will effect the impact of your speech! If you get to choose it, you're able to improve the effect of your presentation!

In my clients case, we opted for a time slot in the mid-morning session. The reason why? Her presentation requires her to use Power Point, so she will need the room to be darkened. A darkened room is very challenging for your audience right after lunch or dinner since they are conducive to sleep and this is surely the last thing you want as a presenter!

In case you can't request your time slot, here's is some more advice to make an impact with your presentation:

1. Invited to give a breakfast talk? Be brief and succinct! Everybody got up at least two hours earlier and still have a work day ahead of them. Give them a brief, easy to follow and clear presentation and finish in time. If your audience will run late for work or you have wasted their precious morning time they'll blame you forever.
2. Are you the last one to give a presentation? Cater for it by being in particular brief - plan your speech to be shorter than the time slot you were allocated. Why? Very often presentations run behind schedule. Your audience will be most grateful if you let them leave the conference room in time and will positively remember you.

In any case, seize the chance and look for opportunities to speak at a conference! Speaking engagements are invaluable if you want to achieve your career goals!