Introduction
Preparation
Postcard Technique
Reducing your fears
Transparencies and handouts
Questions and answers
One of the most useful tips for giving a talk is to use the tried and tested postcard technique.
- Divide your material into sections
- Give each section a heading and write it on a postcard
- Beneath each heading write the few key points that you would like to make when you are speaking
- Number the cards in the order that you intend to make each point
- Now practice the talk using your postcards to prompt you at the crucial points
- You can either discard each card as you have finished with it; or, if you are afraid of dropping them all on the floor and losing you place, punch holes in them and thread a piece of string through them to keep them in order. (Record cards or library catalogue cards are ideal for this.)
- Go through the cards and at the appropriate points write clear, separate prompts (in a different colour) for any visual aids that you might use.
I use this method myself and it has never failed me. I like to word process everything so I type my headings and numbers in big, bold lettering followed by a smaller typeface for my main points. When this is done I print the sheets out and make a second copy. One copy is stapled together and is kept it on the desk to replace my cards in an emergency (if they fall on the floor or blow away in the wind!) The second copy I actually cut up and glue onto the cards giving me beautifully printed and easy to read prompts.