What ought to I put on once I current?” One in every of my teaching shoppers requested me this query not too long ago. Whereas it would sound extra like a query for a method guide, like my colleague Teresa Morisco on her Wardobe 911 weblog, it’s additionally an applicable 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 help the message you might be speaking and never distract from it. What you put on is especially necessary in a high-stakes presentation, however it’s additionally necessary in any presentation, particularly if it’s your first time chatting with this viewers otherwise you’re very nervous.
Listed here are 5 suggestions for dressing for achievement whereas presenting, it doesn’t matter what the event:
1. Gown appropriately
What is taken into account applicable Saint Hubert depends upon the viewers and the venue. For instance, if I’m performing improv comedy for leisure on the month-to-month assembly of a ladies’s social membership, I normally put on good denims. If I’m doing an improv workshop at a Fortune 500 firm, nonetheless, I put on a enterprise go well with. In case you’re undecided what is acceptable, ask the assembly planner or the one that invited you to talk. And in case you’re undecided what appears to be like good on you or what’s age-appropriate, seek the advice of a method knowledgeable like Teresa or work with the private procuring service at any main division retailer.
2. Gown comfortably
No, I’m not speaking about sporting sweats or pajamas, however applicable garments that let you breathe and really feel snug. For instance, in case you’re sporting high-heeled sneakers that damage your ft or pants with a good waistband, you’ll not be centered on speaking your message. I’ve a consumer who feels very heat when she’s nervous – so I instructed she keep away from heavy sweaters and as an alternative, put on layers so she will take away a layer (like a jacket) if she’s feeling too heat.
3. Do a costume rehearsal
In case your outfit just isn’t one thing you’re used to sporting, follow sporting it whereas delivering your presentation. For instance, in case you usually put on khaki pants and a polo shirt, follow sporting the go well with and tie so that you’re not twiddling with the tie or your shirt collar as an alternative of focusing in your message.
4. Contemplate your props
In case you’ll be sporting a lavaliere or clip-on microphone, plan forward how you’ll put on it. Lavaliere microphones will be clipped simply on a tie or jacket lapel, however in case you don’t have a type of, it’s a must to determine the place else you may clip it. Additionally plan the place you’ll put the microphone unit, particularly in case you don’t have a pocket or sturdy waistband.
5. Carry or put on one thing significant
Lots of my shoppers discover it useful to have with them an merchandise with particular which means. Particularly in case you’re nervous, having some type of bodily reminder of one thing particular will help calm your nerves. For instance, you possibly can put on a necklace that your husband gave you, the watch you obtained whenever you obtained promoted or the ring you purchased in your trip to Hawaii. You possibly can even preserve one thing in your pocket, like a spiritual medal, or convey a particular pen or enterprise card case. In fact, you shouldn’t play with the merchandise whereas talking and it shouldn’t be distracting (no bracelets that clink loudly whenever you transfer your arm). The merchandise just isn’t a superstitious good luck appeal, however a reminder of help and a lift of confidence.