A presentation does not happen in a vacuum. It happens in real, physical, tangible space. We demonstrate our managerial competence by taking ownership of that space.  So before you begin, take stock of the space you are in. Understanding its advantages and limitations is critical to the success of your presentation. Leverage the advantages, overcome the limitations.

 

You should always stand up in front of a group (do not remain sitting at a table or trying to hide yourself in the audience or behind a podium.) Find the power position in the room: front and center. That will be your spot.

 

If the space allows, you;ll begin by taking your place upstage right, with the screen on your left. You will then smile, take a deep breath, and walk to your spot downstage front and center to engage the audience. As you already know how far away the walls and ceiling are and how many rows of attendees you must reach, you know what you need to do to fill the space. How much breath you are going to need to project your voice so that all can hear and you command their attention.

 

You are going to stand with your two feet shoulder width apart, soles firmly planted on the floor.You are going to be moving through the space as you reach out to all sections and persons in the audience. Physically emphasize key points with strong arms and quiet hands.Turn in with a sweep of your inner arm to draw audience attention to key information on any slides you are projecting.

 

Own the space, be in the space, and fill the space. With presence comes power.