Tips for Giving a Presentation at a Job Interview

Some people are naturally very good presenters, enjoy the experience and are able to engage their audience. If that's not you then here are a few tips to think about which will help you minimise some of the stress and help you to deliver outstanding presentations.

Hopefully you'll be given two weeks notice to prepare a presentation for a job interview. Don't leave it to the last minute. You may tell yourself that you work better under pressure, but I think it's a foolish thing to do if you want the job.  Don't leave anything to chance and prepare properly.

I know it sounds obvious that you should know who you're presenting to, but it's not always the case. A friend of mine had a job interview for a the post of Deputy Head in a school. She thought the presentation would be to the Board of Govenors and the Head. Imagine how she felt when she found the presentation was to 10 form teachers and twenty pupils. Although she answered the presentation question, it wasn't for the right audience. Your presentation must enage, be relevant to your audience and leave people wanting to hear more.

Tip: If you haven't been told who your audience is don't make any assumptions - ask.

How long is a piece of string? You won't have time to do hours of research, but make sure you have read any documents that have been sent, had a look at the organisations website.

Tip If there's additional information you need to know don't be afraid to ring up and ask.

Many people choose what is known as the 'Rule of Three'

1. Introduction.or aims of presentation
2. The core of the presentation. Three main points
3. Summary - finishing with memorable statement

Alternatively you can use the 'Tell Them Rule'

1. Tell them what you are going to tell them (intro)
2. Tell them (key points)
3. Tell them what you'e told them (summary)

Another option is the 'Four point' structure (often used in a sales environment but can be adapted)

1. The why (needs, resources, relevance)
2. What about? (Provides more information)
3. How? (How it will work)
4. What if? Looking into the future.
   

Another method is 'Three key points' but this structure is generally used if you are given the presentation topice on the day of the interview. The aim is to decide the three key outcomes that the organisation will need from the appointment.

1. Jot down as many relevant ideas as you can.
2. Decide on the three largest outcomes
3. Describe in the presentation how you (and they) will achieve the outcomes and how you will measure their effectiveness.
   

Tip Whatever structure you use the start of the presentation has to be strong. You only have 7-10 seconds to engage your audience.

Whatever the topic of the presentation there are some key points that you should include.

What are the key words in the presentation title? Understanding these will help you to demostrate that you understand the position and the company.

What knowledge and new ideas will you bring to the role?Employers are often looking for a new direction.

What can you bring that will make a difference in terms of market position, sales and growth or competitive advantage? This will be crucial to any potential employer.

What is your USP (Unique Selling Point) or Wow factor that will set you apart from the other candidates? You need to identify something which will identify you as someone who will work above their expectations of the role.

I recently attended a seminar where the presenter said people shouldn't use powerpoint presentations as they don't engage with the audience. Some people love them, some people dislike them and some people use them because they feel that's what expected.

Tip: Choose what feels right for you and what will work with your audience.

Some people advise that it should be no more than 6 bullet points, but I was recently advised that you should use a series of pictures with only a couple of words as a prompt. My advice is however much you put on a slide it must be easily read by your audience or there's no point in it being there.

Tip: However much you decide to put on a slide it must be easily read by your audience or there's no point in it being there.

You may have high level skills to produce a visually attractive and entertaining presentation - but is that really necessary and what will your audience think?

Tip: Keep it simple. You're being marked for your knowledge - not your powerpoint skills.

The rule here is practice, practice, practice. You want to ensure that you are confident in your delivery and keep within the stated time. Do not read the slides word for word - it will really annoy some people. If you have your eyes entirely focussed on your presentation, you'll isolate your audience.  The same applies if you have your eyes constantly on your notes.

Tip: Practice, Practice and Practice. Remember to practice with someone you trust who can give you constructive feedback.

Presentation copies - I prefer to email my presentation a couple of days before so the company can load it up and print copies for the audience. If you have decided to use pictures with just the odd word, then obviously it's not necessary.

Back-up - Techology being what it is- take a back up copy of your presentation on another USB stick.

Clothes - Try your interview clothes on and practice delivering the presentation. Shirts or tops slipping and showing bare flesh if you move your arms is not a good look!

• Sip some water before you start so you don't have a dry mouth.
• Take a few deep breaths before you start.
• Deliver your presentation standing up - unless there is a good reason why you can't.
• Remember to smile. You want your audience to feel relaxed and engage with what you're saying.
• Make sure you look around the entire room. (It's easy to exclude people if you focus on the most senior or influential person in the room)
• Don't speak too quickly
• Keep still. Rocking, excessive flapping of hands is distracting.
• Don't use any kind of joke unless you are supremely confident of pulling it off.
• Sound enthusiastic and passionate about the subject.
• However nervous - Try and enjoy it!