I had a lovely conversation recently with someone who told me they have to use notes when presenting; more specifically, they feel they need to read their speech when speaking in public. They saw this as a problem.
Which made me wonder… a problem for whom?
It’s worth saying that they’re not a professional speaker. They’re not being paid to present.
They simply want to represent their business as well as they can.
And here’s the truth: most audiences aren’t sitting there judging your delivery style. They’re there because they want to hear what you have to say. They’re interested in your message.
So, if reading your presentation is what allows you to show up and deliver that message … then do it. But do it well!
If you do need to read your presentation, here are a few simple ways to make it more effective:
- Skip the obvious. Don’t write down the parts you already know, like your name or business name. If it’s on the page, you’ll read it. And that’s a missed opportunity to make eye contact and connect.
- Upgrade your notes. Print them on card rather than paper. It’s sturdier, less likely to shake, and feels more professional. Clip them together so they stay in order if you drop them.
- Start and finish strong. Learn your first and last sentences so you can begin and end by looking directly at your audience. That first and last impression matters.
- Build in connection cues. Add small reminders, like a smiley face, to prompt you to look up, smile, and engage with your audience.
- Say it out loud. Always practise reading your presentation before the event. What works on paper doesn’t always flow when spoken. And while it might be tempting to write something that sounds impressive, it needs to feel natural as it comes out of your mouth.
Ultimately, it’s not about whether you use notes … it’s about how you use them.
Confidence doesn’t come from having everything memorised; it comes from knowing you can deliver your message clearly and authentically.
If this resonates with you, or you’re wondering how to present with more confidence – notes or no notes – I’d love to see if I can help so feel free to book a free communication strategy call into my diary here.
