The Blog
Navigating the Speaker Journey
A Beginner’s Guide to Presenting at the Healthier Texas Summit
Your voice and experience is needed to drive the conversations and initiatives that will shape a healthier future for Texas. As we gear up for this year’s summit, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Join us as we explore practical tips and strategies to help you deliver impactful presentations that inspire action and change.
Overcoming Stage Fright:
At the heart of every great presentation lies confidence and clarity. According to Psychology Today, understanding the common causes of stage fright can help you manage nerves effectively. By implementing practical tips for managing anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises and positive affirmations, you can channel your energy towards delivering a presentation that leaves a lasting impression. Some other practical steps for overcoming stage fright include practicing your presentation with a trusted colleague or friend.
Crafting Your Message:
Your message is the beacon that guides your audience toward action. According to Harvard Business Review, defining your message clearly and structuring your presentation thoughtfully are essential steps to giving an impactful presentation. Ensure your message aligns with the goals of the Healthier Texas Summit, and organize your content in a way that resonates with your audience and inspires meaningful change.
Practicing with Purpose:
Practice makes perfect, and rehearsal is key to delivering a polished presentation. According to Coursera, dedicating time to hone your delivery and incorporating feedback from mentors or colleagues is an important part of this process. Each practice session will bring you one step closer to delivering a memorable presentation.
Engaging Your Audience:
Engagement is the cornerstone of effective communication. According to TED Talks, capturing your audience’s attention from the beginning is crucial. Incorporate interactive elements and foster participation through thought-provoking questions, multimedia visuals, or audience polls. Strive to create an immersive experience that keeps your audience invested in your message. We will review tools that can help make your presentation more engaging in upcoming blog posts.
Leveraging Resources for Success:
You’re not in this alone—take advantage of the resources and support available to you as a presenter. You can collaborate with colleagues and mentors and receive guidance and feedback, utilizing their expertise to enhance your presentation. Explore online tutorials, courses, and other learning materials to sharpen your skills to deliver a memorable presentation at the Summit.
Embracing Growth Opportunities:
Every speaking opportunity is a chance for personal and professional growth. According to TED Talks, embracing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth is essential. Cultivate a ‘growth mindset’ that celebrates progress and values continuous learning. With each presentation you give and deliver, you will become more confident, resilient, and impactful in driving positive change.
Call for Proposals Closes May 12th!
Submit your proposals before the deadline on May 12th and join us in shaping a healthier future for our state. Save the date for Healthier Texas Summit on October 10th-11th as we come together to connect, share innovative ideas, and cultivate relationships essential for building a healthier Texas.
Your contributions are valuable to advance public health in Texas. By crafting compelling messages, engaging your audience, leveraging resources, and embracing growth opportunities, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver a presentation that inspires change and action.
Additional Resources:
- Psychology Today: “The Fear of Public Speaking”
- Coursera: Presentation Skills Course
- TED Talks: Public Speaking Tips