Presentation Introductions for Beginners: The 3 Ps
Presentation introductions for beginners
Do the thoughts of presentation introductions make you nervous? Does the idea of speaking in front of people make your mouth go dry? Well keep reading …
If you are nervous about presenting in English, making effective presentation introductions is especially important. Effective presentation introductions will help your audience know what to expect and it will help you feel confident. Once you’ve started well it is easier to keep going – and don’t forget that your audience is there to listen to what you have to say and not your English.
The 3Ps
A colleague shared this simple technique with me, and it always works. When you are presenting in English (or in any language) your introduction needs to answer three questions:
- Why are you standing there presenting? What is the purpose of your presentation?
- What are the steps in your presentation? What is the process you will follow?
- Why should your audience listen to you? What is their payoff?
It doesn’t matter if you are introducing your team, presenting a process or giving an update on a project – the structure is the same. The 3Ps help you remember this structure, and if it helps you when you are nervous, why not use the three keywords?
If you follow this structure your presentation introductions will be simple, clear and effective. Most importantly you can concentrate on what you want to say, and stop worrying about the English.
Good luck, and let me know how it works for you in the comments area below.
This advice fits perfectly with the mantra for good business English – Keep it Short & Simple (KISS). Starting a presentation confidently and with a clear message is an absolute must.
Additionally, you should keep in mind the expression, ‘Practice makes perfect.’ Few of us are naturally gifted public speakers, but with sufficient preparation we can all shine in the spotlight.