What ought to I put on once I current? Considered one of my teaching shoppers requested me this query just lately. Whereas it would sound extra like a query for a method advisor, like my colleague Teresa Morisco on her Wardobe 911 weblog, its additionally an applicable query for a presentation abilities 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’re 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 talking to 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 applicable Saint Hubert will depend on the viewers and the venue. For instance, if Im performing improv comedy for leisure on the month-to-month assembly of a girlss social membership, I often put on good denims. If Im doing an improv workshop at a Fortune 500 firm, nevertheless, I put on a enterprise swimsuit. When youre undecided what is acceptable, ask the assembly planner or the one who invited you to talk. And should youre undecided what appears good on you or what’s age-appropriate, seek the advice of a method professional like Teresa or work with the non-public purchasing service at any main division retailer.
2. Costume comfortably
No, Im not speaking about sporting sweats or pajamas, however applicable garments that mean you can breathe and really feel snug. For instance, should youre sporting high-heeled sneakers that damage your toes or pants with a decent waistband, you’ll not be targeted on speaking your message. I’ve a shopper who feels very heat when shes nervous so I recommended she keep away from heavy sweaters and as an alternative, put on layers so she will be able to 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, observe sporting it whereas delivering your presentation. For instance, should you usually put on khaki pants and a polo shirt, observe sporting the swimsuit and tie so that youre not fiddling with the tie or your shirt collar as an alternative of focusing in your message.
4. Contemplate your props
When 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 should you dont have a kind of, it’s a must to determine the place else you possibly can clip it. Additionally plan the place you’ll put the microphone unit, particularly should you dont have a pocket or sturdy waistband.
5. Convey or put on one thing significant
Lots of my shoppers discover it useful to have with them an merchandise with particular that means. Particularly should youre nervous, having some sort of bodily reminder of one thing particular can assist calm your nerves. For instance, you could possibly put on a necklace that your husband gave you, the watch you acquired if you bought promoted or the ring you obtain in your trip to Hawaii. You would even maintain one thing in your pocket, like a spiritual 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 if you transfer your arm). The merchandise is just not a superstitious good luck attraction, however a reminder of help and a lift of confidence.