Demonstrating Professionalism

How can we go beyond the delivery and demonstrate professionalism throughout?

There is much more than just how you give your presentation. There are a few things that you can just keep in mind while you're speaking in front of a crowd since you're there to make an impression and engage your audience. Make sure you look the part by wearing appropriate clothing. Smile. Smiles are more expressive than words. Make eye contact with your audience, and if they are seated around a table, make sure your eyes travel from one end to the other. Avoid focusing on just one person. Eyes engage people. It helps you to make a connection.

Keep an eye on your tone and body language. When we forget that we are in front of others, we may slouch or lean against a chair for added stability. Make sure that your body language is as if you're standing like superwoman or superman. There actually is something called the power pose. Make sure that you're aware of this power pose throughout your presentation. Watch your tone. So even if you know everything that you want to say and the flow is good, make sure that you watch the tone that you're using and that it's not monotone. 

Be mindful of unintentional motions, filler remarks, and mannerisms that may just be habits, but keep an eye on yourself. A smart technique is to perhaps record yourself before giving the presentation so that you can watch it again and identify any movements, habits, or perhaps phrases that are simply inappropriate. Before and after key thoughts, take a breath. Rolling with your slide will support you, but it also serves as a wonderful little cue to halt for the next thought. This offers your audience a respite so they can process the information you are presenting to them. Know your subject matter well enough to confidently take the lead. 

You are leading the presentation, as I just indicated, and the crowd is supporting you. You are not expected to know everything, but you are expected to take action if someone asks you a question about which you are unsure of the answer. If this happens, make sure you follow up with that individual and let them know. It's also a cute little technique to start the subsequent discussion.