My Oral Presentation

Living in a society that requires professional communication skills, presentation skills becomes an essential tool in the working life.

This oral presentation is a good learning experience for me as I have clearly identified my weaknesses in this area and I have learnt good presentation skills from my fellow classmates.

Despite drafting and practicing my speech the day before, I did not perform as well as expected. When I was standing in front of the audience, the only word that came to my mind was ‘NERVOUS!’, and my mind went blank instantaneously! In order to carry on with my presentation, I had to rely on my notes, but it was a fatal move. I had completely forgotten all the little details that I had planned for the presentation. I became over reliant on the notes and my actions were distracting the audiences as I repeatedly refer to the notes. From this experience, I have learnt that it is not wise to memorize the presentation speech. Also, if one were to bring along notes for reference, it should be written in point form instead of an essayed speech as point form notes will prevent the presenter from reading off the essayed speech.

During the presentation, I tried my best to maintain eye contact with the audiences and to speak with appropriate volume and speed. Also, I attempted to engage with the audience, asking them for their views whenever possible. As the presentation went on, I began to cool down as the audiences acknowledge my speech with a nod or a smile, especially the ladies in the front row! Thanks! However, I felt that I could have done better as I had planned for more questions and to ask for different views.

Despite the blunders, I am glad that I had made these mistakes here in class and not in my future working place. This presentation has given me the opportunity to improve on my presentation skills and I will treasure this valuable experience.