What ought to I put on once I current? One among my teaching shoppers requested me this query just lately. Whereas it’d sound extra like a query for a mode marketing consultant, like my colleague Teresa Morisco on her Wardobe 911 weblog, its additionally an acceptable query for a presentation expertise coach like me.
Along with your presentation content material and supply, the way you gown and current your self can have an effect on the success of your presentation. Like your non-verbal communications, the way you gown ought to assist the message you might be speaking and never distract from it. What you put on is especially necessary in a high-stakes presentation, however its additionally necessary in any presentation, particularly if its your first time chatting with this viewers otherwise youre very nervous.
Listed here are 5 ideas for dressing for achievement whereas presenting, it doesn’t matter what the event:
1. Costume appropriately
What is taken into account acceptable Saint Hubert is determined by the viewers and the venue. For instance, if Im performing improv comedy for leisure on the month-to-month assembly of a girlss social membership, I normally put on good denims. If Im doing an improv workshop at a Fortune 500 firm, nonetheless, I put on a enterprise swimsuit. In the event youre unsure what is acceptable, ask the assembly planner or the one that invited you to talk. And when youre unsure what seems good on you or what’s age-appropriate, seek the advice of a mode professional like Teresa or work with the non-public procuring service at any main division retailer.
2. Costume comfortably
No, Im not speaking about carrying sweats or pajamas, however acceptable garments that assist you to breathe and really feel comfy. For instance, when youre carrying high-heeled sneakers that damage your toes or pants with a decent waistband, you’ll not be centered on speaking your message. I’ve a shopper who feels very heat when shes nervous so I steered she keep away from heavy sweaters and as an alternative, put on layers so she will take away a layer (like a jacket) if shes feeling too heat.
3. Do a gown rehearsal
In case your outfit is just not one thing youre used to carrying, observe carrying it whereas delivering your presentation. For instance, when you usually put on khaki pants and a polo shirt, observe carrying the swimsuit and tie so that youre not fiddling with the tie or your shirt collar as an alternative of focusing in your message.
4. Contemplate your props
In the event youll be carrying a lavaliere or clip-on microphone, plan forward how you’ll put on it. Lavaliere microphones may be clipped simply on a tie or jacket lapel, however when you dont have a kind of, it’s important to work out the place else you’ll be able to clip it. Additionally plan the place you’ll put the microphone unit, particularly when you dont have a pocket or sturdy waistband.
5. Deliver or put on one thing significant
A lot of my shoppers discover it useful to have with them an merchandise with particular that means. Particularly when youre nervous, having some form of bodily reminder of one thing particular can assist calm your nerves. For instance, you possibly can put on a necklace that your husband gave you, the watch you acquired while you bought promoted or the ring to procure in your trip to Hawaii. You could possibly even hold one thing in your pocket, like a spiritual medal, or convey a particular pen or enterprise card case. In fact, you shouldn’t play with the merchandise whereas talking and it shouldnt be distracting (no bracelets that clink loudly while you transfer your arm). The merchandise is just not a superstitious good luck allure, however a reminder of assist and a lift of confidence.
