Phase 4: Delivering

As we come down to the last week of preparation before the big day (AGU Session ED31F on Wednesday, Dec 11 at 8am! or whatever day you are presenting your work), we should start thinking about the second last stage of presenting: delivering.  If you've followed us so far, you should be well on your way to being prepared for this.  However, it's easy to feel nervous despite all your practicing.  Here are a few things to remember when while you're up on stage:

• If you think you will need it, be prepared with a glass of water (half full and no ice), cough drops, notes, and a watch and/or clock to keep track of your time.  It's important that you stick to your time limit because you want to have enough time for people to ask questions and for the next speaker to approach the stage.
• Be aware of noises that you make while you're presenting.  Take your keys and any coins out of your pockets so you can't be tempted to make noise.  Don't click your pen and make sure your cell phone is off or on silent.  These sounds can distract your audience from the messages covered in your presentation.
• Be aware of visual signals while you're presenting.  For example, do not over use pointers.  While you are practicing with friends before your final presentation, you can have them check to make sure you don't make any nervous motions (i.e. shifting on your feet) that might distract the audience from your message.  Make eye contact with the audience.
• Be aware of your voice.  Specifically, pay attention to your tone, volume, and speed.  Are you boring and monotone or bright and interesting sounding?  Is your volume loud enough for people in the back to hear you?  Are you talking too fast for everyone to understand?  Try to slow down and pause for people to have time to take in what you are explaining.
• Props can often help you explain a concept but be careful they aren't too distracting from the content of your presentation.
• Remember to say 'thank you' to the audience when you are done.  
• Remember to end early so there is still time for questions.

When in doubt, take a deep breath, relax, and remember to do your best.  You will do a great job!

P.S.  I saw that this workshop was being offered on Dec 8th before AGU officially starts.  Check it out if you're interested in honing your storytelling skills.