::gulp::

Wednesday, January 5, 2011
As part of my job, I periodically have to attend conferences where my company's products and services are showcased to a larger audience. Sometimes that audience is our end customers, and sometimes that audience is business partners who resell our products and services as part of our dealer network. My role usually consists of manning a booth, discussing our solutions with passersby, or giving talks in break-out sessions to technical audiences.

I'm scheduled to attend such an event next month, and for the first time, I will be giving a "general session" presentation. The audience for this presentation will number at least in the hundreds.

Now, I'm no stranger to public speaking. Over half my working life has been spent in positions where giving technical presentations or training was an integral part of my duties. I'm used to it. I'm good at it. But I've never presented to such a large audience.

It's freaking me out a little, man.

I suspect that's a good thing - my concern over doing a good job will force me to prepare appropriately. Unless I trip over my own feet (if you've met me, you know that's a distinct possibility), I think I'll do just fine. I hope.

6 comments:

Jeri said...

Remember, you are *fierce*. :)

mom in northern said...

You will be fine...size isn't everything...just make sure the PA system the use works so the folks in the back can here you...and don't rush the presentation.

mom in northern said...

system THEY use...can't type either.

mom in northern said...

...that should be hear not here...jezz...think I will stop now.

Janiece said...

::snirk::

nzforme said...

When I was in Law School, someone told me to hold a pen when speaking, so that I wouldn't worry about what to do with my hands.

Very first "mock trial" argument, I accidentally flung my pen at the judge.

(On the plus side, after that, there was nowhere I could go but up.)