What ought to I put on once I current? One in every of my teaching purchasers requested me this query just lately. Whereas it’d sound extra like a query for a method guide, like my colleague Teresa Morisco on her Wardobe 911 weblog, its additionally an acceptable query for a presentation expertise coach like me.
Along with your presentation content material and supply, the way you costume and current your self can have an effect on the success of your presentation. Like your non-verbal communications, the way you costume ought to assist the message you might be speaking and never distract from it. What you put on is especially essential in a high-stakes presentation, however its additionally essential in any presentation, particularly if its your first time chatting with this viewers otherwise youre very nervous.
Listed below are 5 ideas for dressing for achievement whereas presenting, it doesn’t matter what the event:
1. Costume appropriately
What is taken into account acceptable Saint Hubert is determined by the viewers and the venue. For instance, if Im performing improv comedy for leisure on the month-to-month assembly of a ladiess social membership, I normally put on good denims. If Im doing an improv workshop at a Fortune 500 firm, nevertheless, I put on a enterprise swimsuit. In case youre undecided what is suitable, ask the assembly planner or the one that invited you to talk. And in case youre undecided what seems to be good on you or what’s age-appropriate, seek the advice of a method skilled like Teresa or work with the private buying service at any main division retailer.
2. Costume comfortably
No, Im not speaking about sporting sweats or pajamas, however acceptable garments that mean you can breathe and really feel snug. For instance, in case youre sporting high-heeled footwear that harm your toes or pants with a good waistband, you’ll not be targeted on speaking your message. I’ve a shopper who feels very heat when shes nervous so I advised she keep away from heavy sweaters and as a substitute, put on layers so she will take away a layer (like a jacket) if shes feeling too heat.
3. Do a costume rehearsal
In case your outfit is just not one thing youre used to sporting, apply sporting it whereas delivering your presentation. For instance, in case you usually put on khaki pants and a polo shirt, apply sporting the swimsuit and tie so that youre not fiddling with the tie or your shirt collar as a substitute of focusing in your message.
4. Contemplate your props
In case youll be sporting a lavaliere or clip-on microphone, plan forward how you’ll put on it. Lavaliere microphones may be clipped simply on a tie or jacket lapel, however in case you dont have a type of, it’s a must to work out the place else you may clip it. Additionally plan the place you’ll put the microphone unit, particularly in case you dont have a pocket or sturdy waistband.
5. Deliver or put on one thing significant
A lot of my purchasers discover it useful to have with them an merchandise with particular which means. Particularly in case youre nervous, having some sort of bodily reminder of one thing particular will help calm your nerves. For instance, you can put on a necklace that your husband gave you, the watch you acquired once you received promoted or the ring you obtain in your trip to Hawaii. You can even hold one thing in your pocket, like a non secular medal, or deliver a particular pen or enterprise card case. After all, you shouldn’t play with the merchandise whereas talking and it shouldnt be distracting (no bracelets that clink loudly once you transfer your arm). The merchandise is just not a superstitious good luck attraction, however a reminder of assist and a lift of confidence.