First.... TELL THEM WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO TELL THEM then..... TELL THEM then..... TELL THEM WHAT YOU TOLD THEM Some general ideas that can be applied to any presentation .

1 Identify outcome, for group and self

Be sure that you know what the group expects from the presentation. If it�s a class, keep skill levels and requested customizations in mind. Keep in mind that you, as presenter, are a learner too. What do you want to get from the presentation?

2 Give an overview (What,Why, How)

Try to keep the big picture in your listener�s mind. Don�t let them get lost in the trees.

3 Do one step at a time

Don�t go on until the current step is clearly understood. (Could your mother follow this?)

4 Backtrack and tie in new material

Keep reviewing so that the flow remains clear. Most people need to hear things more than once anyway. Backtracking helps to make new material relevant and more easily remembered.

5 The Four Phase Training Cycle

• Give a general description
• Do a demo of the operation
• Have them do a hands-on run through
• Review what has been done

6 Model it yourself

When you want someone to do something, be the exemplar.

7 Quality over quantity

If you can�t finish the course without dragging most of the class through it by the hair, then don�t worry about finishing. It�s always more important to teach it well, rather than just teach it all.

8 Seek interaction

Get students to respond. Call on people if necessary. Without response it�s hard to tell how your presentation is being received. In some companies, the corporate culture suggests keeping a low profile. Let your students know that its OK to speak up.

9 Emphasize application benefits

Show your students how the example being taught can save them time, or whatever. Try to keep your teachings from being merely academic.

10 Economy of movement, but use body

You don�t need to slam dance to use body language. Be active and physically attentive and your students will be less likely to slouch and doze...

11 Lead with an experience >

Don�t be shy about relating your own learning experience. Not everyone will match your thoughts about a topic, but hearing about your experiences might start them thinking.

12 Amplify point with concrete example

Our examples illustrate the topics to be taught. If you know of another example which might be more relevant to the present class, refer to it, and maybe even teach it.

13 Present to the entire group

Don�t concentrate on just the �hot shots� or beginners. Address comments to everyone, at least in turn. Make eye contact regularly with everyone and find occasions to talk to everyone.

14 Dissociate from you own map

Remember, these folks are mostly seeing the material for the first time. Your own feelings may differ substantially after teaching a course a few dozen (or hundred) times. Try to remember what it was like when you first sat in on a class.