Presentation Skills Training Course – 5 Star Reviews!  

We love receiving feedback from our clients on our presentation skills courses. 

Here’s some of the messages we received yesterday for a session we ran last week.  Great work team!  

Thank you so much for an amazing session. The feedback from the team was great, with everyone feeling really engaged.

Here is some of the feedback I received:

The trainer was very good. Def gets the KERB vibe. I thought he held the room really well and was great at giving everyone individual feedback. I really liked that it was not too corporate (no PowerPoint or slides to stare at) and lots of practice in groups and as individuals. There were loads from the session that were useful! The ‘best friend’ tip was a game changer for me. The duration and pace was perfect

Gareth was great, I think he had a really nice balance between encouragement and direction.  Content was generally very good. I think the duration and pace was pretty much perfect. It didn’t feel repetitive and there was no down time, but it also felt complete and not rushed at any point. 

I thought it was amazing! We really made use of the time, I took some great tips and also got to understand what needs to be done to remedy my nerves.  

We will be looking at hosting another public speaking session later in the year, but we have no idea on dates yet.

Media Training in London & UK: Expert Coaches and Courses

In today’s fast-paced media landscape, knowing how to communicate effectively with confidence and clarity is more important than ever. Whether you’re preparing for a press interview, appearing on TV, or handling tough questions in a crisis, professional media training can make all the difference.

At The Presenter Studio, we offer expert-led media training courses in London and across the UK, tailored to help business leaders, spokespeople, and professionals master the art of media communication. With industry-leading coaches and a hands-on approach, our courses equip you with the skills needed to deliver powerful, engaging, and controlled media performances.

Why Media Training Matters

Whether you’re representing a brand, a business, or yourself, media appearances can be both an opportunity and a challenge. Without the right training, it’s easy to feel unprepared or even overwhelmed. Media training helps you build confidence, communicate effectively, handle difficult questions, understand the media, and avoid common pitfalls. At The Presenter Studio, our tailored media training courses are designed to help individuals and teams develop these essential skills through expert coaching and real-world practice.

Our Media Training Courses in London & the UK

Our courses are designed and led by top TV producers who have worked with some of the UK’s biggest broadcasters, including BBC, ITV, and Channel 4. We know exactly what it takes to deliver engaging and impactful media performances.

What Our Media Training Includes:

On-camera training gives you real interview scenarios to perfect your delivery. Message development helps you craft key messages that are clear, concise, and compelling. TV and radio interview techniques teach you how to engage audiences across different media platforms. Social media and digital media preparation ensure you present yourself effectively online. Crisis media training prepares you for high-pressure situations and tricky questions.

Each session is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you walk away with practical skills that you can immediately apply.

Who Is This Course For?

Our media training is perfect for business leaders and spokespeople who need to represent their company with confidence, entrepreneurs and startups looking to make a strong impact in media interviews, PR and comms teams sharpening their messaging and storytelling skills, public figures and influencers handling media exposure professionally, and anyone facing the media across TV, radio, or digital platforms.

Why Choose The Presenter Studio?

Our trainers are top TV professionals with years of experience in media coaching. We focus on real-life scenarios, giving you the chance to practice and refine your skills. Every course is customised to suit your experience, role, and media goals. We’ve trained CEOs, celebrities, and business professionals who have gone on to deliver outstanding media performances.

Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming interview, launching a new product, or simply want to enhance your communication skills, our media training in London & the UK will help you stand out for all the right reasons.

Book Your Media Training Today

Ready to take your media skills to the next level? Visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/media-training to learn more about our expert-led media training courses and book your session today.

Let’s make your next media appearance a success!

Media Training Course: Finding Your Own Voice and Developing Your Authentic Style

When it comes to media training, one of the most important aspects of success is developing your own unique voice. In an era where audiences are bombarded with content from every direction, authenticity is key. People don’t want to listen to someone who sounds rehearsed or robotic - they want to hear from someone real, someone relatable, someone who speaks with warmth and personality. At The Presenter Studio, our media training courses are designed to help you find your voice, develop your own style, and build an authentic connection with your audience.

The Importance of Authenticity in Media Training

Authenticity is the foundation of powerful communication. Whether you’re appearing on television, delivering a speech, hosting a podcast, or giving an interview, being yourself is what makes you memorable. Viewers and listeners can sense when someone is being fake, and the moment they pick up on inauthenticity, they disengage. That’s why our media training course focuses on helping you embrace your natural strengths and turn them into assets in your communication.

Finding your own voice means understanding what makes you unique. Everyone has their own style of speaking, their own way of expressing ideas, and their own personality traits that make them stand out. The goal of media training isn’t to mold you into a generic presenter - it’s to bring out the best version of you.

Developing Your Own Style

Many people mistakenly believe that media training is about learning a set of rigid rules. In reality, it’s about flexibility and self-expression. The best media personalities—whether they are news anchors, talk show hosts, or business leaders—have developed a style that feels natural to them.

Your style is influenced by your personality, your experience, and the way you naturally communicate. Do you have a great sense of humour? Use it to engage your audience. Are you naturally calm and composed? That can be your strength. Do you speak with passion and energy? Let that enthusiasm shine through. The key is to be aware of your strengths and use them to your advantage rather than trying to fit into a pre-made mold.

The Power of Warmth and Connection

One of the biggest mistakes people make in media appearances is treating their audience as an anonymous group rather than individuals. Communication is about connection. People are drawn to warmth and authenticity, and that’s what makes a message resonate. When you speak with warmth, your audience feels as though they are part of a conversation, rather than being talked at.

Warmth comes through in various ways—your tone of voice, your facial expressions, your body language, and even the words you choose. Smiling, making eye contact (whether through a camera or in-person), and using inclusive language all help to build a connection with your audience. Our media training course teaches techniques to enhance warmth in your communication so that your audience feels engaged and valued.

Having a Conversation, Not Giving a Lecture

One of the biggest misconceptions about public speaking and media appearances is that you need to deliver information in a structured, formal way—like a lecture. But the most effective communicators don’t lecture; they have conversations. Whether you’re speaking to a camera, a journalist, or a live audience, you want to feel as if you’re having a real discussion with real people.

A conversational style makes your message more digestible, more relatable, and more engaging. It helps break down barriers between you and your audience. Instead of sounding rehearsed, you sound natural. Instead of delivering a monologue, you create a dialogue - even if your audience isn’t physically responding.

Techniques such as using rhetorical questions, varying your tone, and incorporating storytelling can help create a conversational feel. Our media training course teaches these techniques, ensuring that your delivery feels effortless and engaging.

Using Your Personality to Connect

Your personality is your greatest asset when it comes to media training. People don’t just remember what you say—they remember how you make them feel. Your personality is what makes you stand out, what makes you different from everyone else. Leaning into your natural strengths allows you to build deeper connections and create a lasting impact.

If you’re naturally humorous, don’t be afraid to bring that humor into your delivery. If you’re passionate about a topic, let that passion come through. If you’re known for being down-to-earth, use that to your advantage. The best communicators embrace who they are rather than trying to conform to an idea of what they think a presenter should be.

How The Presenter Studio Helps You Find Your Voice

At The Presenter Studio, we believe that the best presenters are the ones who bring their full selves to the table. Our media training course is designed to help you uncover and refine your unique style so that your communication feels natural, confident, and impactful.

We provide tailored training that focuses on:

• Identifying and amplifying your strengths
• Learning how to develop a conversational and engaging style
• Mastering techniques to convey warmth and authenticity
• Building confidence in front of the camera and during interviews
• Adapting your communication style for different media platforms

Through personalized coaching, practical exercises, and real-world insights, we help individuals and teams elevate their communication skills. Whether you’re preparing for a high-profile interview, a corporate presentation, or a media appearance, our course equips you with the skills to connect with your audience in a meaningful way.

Why Media Training Matters More Than Ever

In today’s digital world, effective communication is essential. With the rise of social media, online interviews, and live streaming, the ability to engage an audience authentically has never been more important. The way you present yourself on camera can shape your personal brand, influence public perception, and even impact business success.

Audiences have high expectations - they want to hear from people who are genuine, relatable, and compelling. That’s why media training isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about finding your voice, building confidence, and learning how to communicate in a way that truly resonates.

Investing in a media training course isn’t just about becoming a better speaker—it’s about becoming a more effective communicator in all areas of life. Whether you’re addressing a boardroom, appearing on television, or creating video content for your business, the ability to communicate with clarity, confidence, and authenticity is a skill that will serve you for years to come.

Ready to Elevate Your Media Presence?

If you’re ready to take your media skills to the next level and develop a style that is uniquely yours, our media training course at The Presenter Studio is here to help. We offer expert guidance, personalized coaching, and practical techniques to ensure that you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to connect with any audience.

Discover how to find your voice, embrace your personality, and communicate with impact. Join us at www.presenterstudio.com and start your journey to becoming a more authentic, engaging, and influential communicator.

Media Training: Mastering the Art of Communication

In today's fast-paced media landscape, the ability to communicate effectively on camera or in interviews is a powerful skill. Whether you're a business leader, a public figure, or an expert in your field, media training ensures that your message is clear, confident, and compelling. At The Presenter Studio, we specialize in helping individuals and teams refine their communication skills to make a lasting impact.

Media training is more than just learning how to speak on camera. It is about understanding the dynamics of interviews, handling difficult questions, and delivering your message with authenticity and authority. A well-trained spokesperson can build credibility, enhance brand reputation, and ensure that key messages resonate with the intended audience.

One of the most important aspects of media training is learning how to take control of an interview. Journalists and broadcasters have their own angles and agendas, so it is essential to stay focused on your key messages while remaining engaging and responsive. Knowing how to bridge from challenging questions back to your main points is a crucial skill that can help you maintain control of the narrative.

Body language and vocal delivery also play a significant role in effective media appearances. Confidence comes not only from what you say but also from how you say it. Media training helps refine your tone, pacing, and posture to ensure that you come across as credible and trustworthy. Even the best message can be undermined by nervous habits, lack of eye contact, or an unconvincing delivery.

Another vital component of media training is crisis communication. When facing a media crisis, a poorly handled interview can make matters worse. Preparation is key, and media training provides the strategies needed to stay composed, address concerns effectively, and protect your reputation in high-pressure situations.

In an era where digital content is king, media training is not just for those appearing on traditional TV or radio. With the rise of social media, live streaming, and virtual interviews, being able to communicate effectively on multiple platforms is essential. Whether it is a podcast, a YouTube interview, or a LinkedIn live session, media training ensures that your message is consistently strong across all mediums.

At The Presenter Studio, we have worked with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and media personalities to sharpen their communication skills and enhance their media presence. Our bespoke training programs are designed to provide practical, hands-on experience, ensuring that you feel fully prepared for any media opportunity that comes your way.

Investing in media training is one of the most valuable steps you can take to enhance your professional profile, build your brand, and make a lasting impact. Whether you are preparing for a major TV appearance, a press interview, or a social media broadcast, the right training will equip you with the skills needed to shine in the spotlight.

For expert media training tailored to your needs, visit The Presenter Studio at www.presenterstudio.com

Improve Communication Skills: Unlock Your Full Potential

In today’s fast-paced world, effective communication is more important than ever. Whether you're in the workplace, engaging with clients, or simply interacting with friends and family, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently is a vital skill. At The Presenter Studio, we believe that improving communication skills is not only about what you say, but also how you say it, and the way you connect with your audience.

Improving communication skills can enhance your personal and professional life, help you build stronger relationships, and empower you to express your thoughts with clarity and impact. Here's a roadmap to developing your communication skills and unlocking your full potential.

1. Master Active Listening

Effective communication isn’t just about speaking—it’s also about listening. Active listening means truly paying attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully. This builds rapport and shows respect for the other person’s perspective.

Tips for active listening:

• Give full attention: Eliminate distractions when listening, such as checking your phone or multitasking.
• Acknowledge and confirm: Show you’re listening by nodding, making eye contact, or using phrases like "I see," or "That makes sense."
• Ask questions: Clarify what you’ve heard by asking open-ended questions, which also demonstrates interest.

When you master active listening, you can respond with greater empathy and understanding, ensuring a meaningful conversation.

2. Develop Clear and Concise Messaging

How you communicate is just as important as what you say. Many people struggle with being overly wordy or vague when trying to get their point across. The best communicators are able to express themselves clearly and succinctly, without sacrificing depth or meaning.

Tips for clear and concise messaging:

• Be mindful of your audience: Tailor your message to the audience's needs and level of understanding.
• Use simple language: Avoid jargon and overly complex terms. Speak in a way that’s easy to follow.
• Get to the point: Respect your listener’s time. Organize your thoughts and avoid unnecessary details.

At The Presenter Studio, we teach our clients the art of structuring messages in a way that’s both impactful and easy to digest. Whether you're giving a presentation or participating in a meeting, clarity is key.

3. Nonverbal Communication is Key

What you say is important, but how you say it can be even more powerful. Nonverbal cues—such as body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions—play a significant role in how your message is received. In fact, research suggests that up to 93% of communication is nonverbal!

Tips for effective nonverbal communication:

• Maintain eye contact: This shows confidence and helps build trust.
• Mind your posture: Stand or sit up straight to project authority and openness.
• Be mindful of gestures: Use hand gestures to emphasize key points, but avoid excessive movements that may distract.
• Control your tone: Ensure your voice conveys the right emotion and intent—avoid sounding monotone or disinterested.

At The Presenter Studio, we focus on helping our clients become more aware of their body language, so they can communicate with greater presence and authenticity.

4. Refine Your Speaking Skills

Public speaking can be daunting for many people, but it’s an essential communication skill that can make all the difference in your personal and professional success. Whether you're speaking in a meeting, giving a presentation, or leading a team, being a confident and engaging speaker will make you stand out.

Tips for refining your speaking skills:

• Practice regularly: The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
• Record yourself: Listening to recordings of your speeches or presentations can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Engage with your audience: Make your speaking dynamic by asking questions, encouraging feedback, and making eye contact.

Public speaking skills are essential, and at The Presenter Studio, we offer expert coaching to help you feel at ease in front of any audience.

5. Develop Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Effective communication isn't just about being articulate—it’s about connecting with others on an emotional level. Emotional intelligence (EQ) refers to your ability to recognize and manage your own emotions, as well as understand and influence the emotions of others.

Tips for developing EQ:

• Practice self-awareness: Recognize your emotions and how they affect your communication.
• Empathy: Put yourself in the other person's shoes to better understand their feelings and viewpoints.
• Manage emotions: In moments of stress or conflict, stay calm and composed to communicate effectively.

By developing your emotional intelligence, you can connect more deeply with others and communicate in a way that resonates with their emotions and needs.

6. Seek Constructive Feedback

One of the best ways to improve communication skills is by seeking feedback from others. Constructive feedback helps you identify areas for growth and gives you actionable advice on how to improve.

Tips for seeking feedback:

• Ask for specific feedback: Instead of asking, “How did I do?” try asking, “What could I have done differently?” or “How can I make my message clearer?”
• Be open to criticism: Don’t take feedback personally. See it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
• Apply the feedback: Once you receive feedback, take steps to implement it and track your progress.

At The Presenter Studio, our expert coaches provide personalized feedback that helps you refine your skills and become a more effective communicator.

7. Ongoing Practice and Learning

Communication is a skill that evolves over time. The more you practice and learn, the better you’ll become. Whether it’s through reading, taking courses, or engaging in conversations, continuous learning and practice are key to long-term improvement.

At The Presenter Studio, we offer a variety of training programs to help you enhance your communication skills. Whether you’re looking to improve your public speaking, refine your message delivery, or become a more effective leader, we provide the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Ready to Improve Your Communication Skills?

At The Presenter Studio, we are dedicated to helping individuals like you improve their communication abilities. Whether you want to speak with confidence, connect more deeply with others, or present ideas clearly and persuasively, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take your communication skills to the next level? Contact us today and start your journey toward becoming a more confident and impactful communicator!

Get in touch with us today:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training or email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

What's the Best Public Speaking Training?

Public speaking is a skill that can transform your career, confidence, and ability to influence others. Whether you’re presenting in a boardroom, speaking at a conference, or giving a simple toast, the ability to communicate effectively is invaluable. But how do you know which public speaking training is the best? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

At The Presenter Studio, we believe that the best public speaking training is one that is tailored to your unique needs, builds confidence, and provides actionable skills you can apply immediately. Here’s what to look for in the best training:

1. Personalised Approach

The best public speaking training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every individual has different strengths and areas for improvement. Look for a program that offers personalized feedback and focuses on your unique voice and style. At The Presenter Studio, our expert coaches provide one-on-one sessions that cater to your personal goals and challenges. Whether you need help overcoming nervousness or perfecting your delivery, we’re here to guide you.

2. Practical Techniques

While theories and frameworks are important, public speaking requires hands-on practice. The best training programs include opportunities to speak in front of others and receive constructive feedback. At The Presenter Studio, we focus on providing practical, real-world exercises to help you build your skills in a supportive

environment. You’ll leave our sessions feeling ready to step onto any stage with confidence.

3. Confidence Building

Confidence is key to effective public speaking. The best training helps you overcome fears and build the self-assurance you need to connect with your audience. Our team works with you on mindset, body language, vocal projection, and managing nerves, so you can perform at your best, every time.

4. Focus on Storytelling

Engaging speeches aren’t just about delivering information—they’re about telling a story that resonates with your audience. The best public speaking training will teach you how to craft and deliver a compelling narrative. At The Presenter Studio, we emphasize the power of storytelling, helping you make your message memorable and impactful.

5. Ongoing Support and Resources

Public speaking is a lifelong skill that evolves with experience. Look for a program that offers ongoing support, whether through follow-up coaching, community access, or additional resources. At The Presenter Studio, we provide you with tools and techniques that you can continue to refine over time, ensuring that you never stop growing as a speaker.

Why Choose The Presenter Studio?

We believe in a holistic approach to public speaking training. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or an experienced speaker looking to refine your skills, our training is designed to meet you where you are and help you get to the next level. Our expert coaches are dedicated to your success and will help you unlock your full potential as a communicator.

If you’re ready to take your public speaking to the next level, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our programs and start your journey to confident, impactful communication.

Ready to become a powerful public speaker? Contact us today!  And check out the info on how we work here:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

What Are the 5 P's of Presentation Skills?

Presentation skills are essential for effective communication, whether in business, education, or public speaking. To deliver a compelling and engaging presentation, mastering the 5 P's of Presentation Skills is crucial. 

These five elements - Planning, Preparation, Practice, Performance, and Presence - help ensure that your message is clear, impactful, and well-received. 

So here’s some tips and tricks that will help you:  

1. Planning

The foundation of any great presentation starts with planning. This involves understanding your audience, defining your key message, and structuring your content in a logical and engaging way. Effective planning includes:

Identifying your audience's needs and expectations

Setting clear objectives for your presentation

Organizing your content with a strong introduction, body, and conclusion

Choosing the right visual aids and supporting materials

And finding your own voice and developing your own style – don’t just go into ‘presentation mode’ think of this as an exciting opportunity to engage or entertain your audience.  

Without proper planning, your presentation may lack coherence and fail to engage your audience.

2. Preparation

Once you have a plan, the next step is preparation. This involves gathering resources, creating slides or other visual aids, and ensuring all technical aspects are in place. Key aspects of preparation include:

Designing visually appealing slides with minimal text and high-impact visuals – but ask yourself – do you really need them?  Keep them snappy.  Very little text.  And on brand to the business you represent.  

Create a Running Order – a high level overview of your presentation that is split up into timed segments.  Then write a script…more on that in a bit.  

3. Practice

No matter how experienced you are, practice is essential to delivering a smooth and confident presentation. Practicing helps refine your delivery, improve timing, and reduce nervousness. Effective ways to practice include:

Writing a script.  Practice with it.  Then sub it back onto cards.  

Rehearsing out loud multiple times – standing up.  

Practicing in front of a colleague – ask for feedback. 

Work on tone, body language, pace, pauses, light and shade…

The more you practice, the more comfortable and natural your presentation will feel.

4. Performance

When it’s time to deliver, your performance determines how well your audience receives your message. A strong performance involves:

Speaking clearly and confidently – connect from the heart not the head.  

Engaging with your audience through eye contact and gestures

Using storytelling and real-life examples to illustrate points – but make they the stories don’t cloud the main takeout.  

Enjoy it!  

Your energy and enthusiasm will influence how your audience perceives your message, so be sure to bring your best self to the stage.

5. Presence

Your presence is about how you carry yourself and connect with your audience. It involves confidence, authenticity, and the ability to command attention. To enhance your presence:

Maintain good posture and purposeful movement – this is a visual performance so always think of how you want to look and stand. 

Adapt to the audience’s reactions and stay flexible – hard to do – but a simple question to re-engage them can help.  

And we’ll say it again – enjoy it!  It’s a great opportunity personally and professionally. 

Conclusion

Mastering the 5 P’s of Presentation Skills - Planning, Preparation, Practice, Performance, and Presence - will help you deliver impactful and engaging presentations. Whether you’re speaking to a small team or a large audience, these principles will enhance your ability to communicate effectively and leave a lasting impression.

By focusing on these essential elements, you can overcome nervousness, improve your delivery, and captivate your audience with confidence and clarity.

For more information on our bespoke presentation skills training programmes visit:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Mastering the Art of Presenting to Camera: Media Training Tips for Confidence & Impact

Presenting to camera can feel intimidating, but with the right techniques, you can own the screen with confidence. Whether you're giving a media interview, recording a corporate video, or hosting a webinar, camera presence is a skill you can master. At The Presenter Studio, we specialize in media training that helps professionals communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Here’s how to present to camera like a pro:

1. Think of the Camera as Your Best Friend

The biggest mistake people make? Seeing the camera as a cold, intimidating lens instead of a trusted friend. Shift your mindset—imagine you're talking to someone who genuinely supports and listens to you.

This simple trick helps with nerves, energy, tone, and pace. When you feel relaxed, your delivery becomes more engaging and natural.

2. Interviews: Who Are You Talking To?

In an interview setting, there are always three people in the conversation:

1. The interviewer – the person asking the questions.
2. The audience – the viewers at home or online.
3. You – the expert delivering the message.

Where Should You Look?

• Looking at the interviewer? This makes the conversation feel intimate and authentic.
• Looking at the camera? This creates a direct connection with your audience, making them feel spoken to personally.

Decide before the interview which approach works best for the format and your message.

3. Don't Shout! The Mic is Doing the Work

A common mistake in presenting to camera is over-projecting. If the camera is far away, you might instinctively raise your voice—but remember, if you’re mic’d up, you don’t need to.

Speak at a natural volume—your mic will capture every word. ✔ Focus on tone and clarity rather than volume. ✔ Avoid sudden changes in pitch that can sound unnatural on playback.

Check out the media training courses we run here:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/media-training

The Power of the Visual in Public Speaking: What You Wear, Your Slides & Your Stage Presence

When it comes to public speaking, your words matter—but so does the way you present them. At The Presenter Studio, we know that visual impact plays a crucial role in how your audience perceives and remembers your message. From what you wear to how you use slides, Zoom, and even body movement, every visual element should enhance your authority, confidence, and connection with your audience.

1. What to Wear: Confidence Through Clothing

Your outfit is part of your communication. It should reflect who you are and the message you want to deliver. Clean lines, confident colors, and a look that aligns with your brand can make all the difference.

Examples:

• Steve Jobs (Apple) – His black turtleneck and jeans became iconic, reinforcing his brand’s simplicity and innovation.
• Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook) – His casual hoodie reflected a relaxed, tech-startup culture.

? Tip: Choose colors that boost confidence (blue for trust, red for energy, black for authority) and ensure your outfit looks polished on camera and in person.

2. Slides: Less Is More

Your slides should support your speech, not distract from it. Too much text can overwhelm your audience and take focus away from you. Use them only when they add impact.

Best Practices:

✔ Use one key point per slide ✔ Ditch the bullet points—use images, graphics, or one-liners instead ✔Keep fonts large and legible ✔ Stick to clean, professional design

3. Zoom: The Virtual Stage

With online presentations, your background, shot, and lighting determine how professional and engaging you appear.

Key Factors:

? The Background: Keep it clean, uncluttered, and brand-aligned (no messy rooms!) ? Lighting: Natural light or soft ring lights help you look your best ? Shot Composition: Position your camera at eye level to maintain a natural, engaging connection ? Team Consistency: Ensure your entire team aligns their shots for a professional, unified look

4. Eye Contact: Your Connection Tool

Your eyes convey confidence and authenticity. Whether in person or on camera, maintain eye contact to build trust.

? Tip: If you're presenting virtually, look directly into the camera rather than at the screen.

5. The First Impression: How You Walk On

The way you step onto the stage (or into the frame) sets the tone for your entire presentation. Move with purpose and confidence.

Best Practices:

• Walk on with a smile and open body language
• Take a steady, confident stride
• Stand tall and avoid fidgeting

6. Choreography: Where You Walk and Why

Your movement on stage should feel natural and intentional. Avoid pacing aimlessly—walk with purpose.

How to Move Effectively:

• Move when transitioning topics
• Walk toward your audience to emphasize key points
• Avoid rocking or swaying—it distracts from your message

Next Time You Do a Presentation – Do a Cynthia Erivo. Last night, Cynthia Erivo delivered a powerhouse performance at the Academy Awards that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Her voice, her presence, and her sheer authenticity reminded us of one of the most crucial aspects of any performance - whether it’s singing, acting, or speaking: connection. 

Watching her perform, it’s clear that there’s so much we can learn from her approach when it comes to speaking and presenting. If you think about it, speaking in front of an audience is much like singing. The principles of connecting with your words, using light and shade, and finding your own unique rhythm apply just as much in the boardroom as they do on stage. Whether you're presenting at work, leading a meeting, or giving a keynote address, it’s time we start thinking about public speaking the same way we think about performance. And who better to learn from than Cynthia Erivo? 

1. Connect with the Words.  Cynthia Erivo doesn’t just sing; she connects with every word she sings. You can hear it in the way she pours emotion into every lyric, making each one resonate with the audience. When you speak, it’s just as important to connect with your words. Don’t just go through the motions - feel the message you're delivering.  A speech isn’t just a list of facts or ideas; it’s a story, a feeling, an experience that you’re sharing with your audience. Whether you're talking about your latest project, presenting a new idea, or giving a speech to inspire others, you need to bring life to your words. Just like Cynthia brings a powerful emotional intensity to her music, bring passion to your presentation. Be invested in what you're saying. People will remember how you made them feel, not just the information you provided. 

2. Think Light and Shade.  One of the things that made Cynthia’s performance at the Oscars so mesmerizing was her ability to play with light and shade in her voice. She didn’t simply belt out her song; she knew when to soften her delivery, build up to a crescendo, and when to let a pause hang in the air. It was a masterclass in vocal dynamics - and it’s something we can apply to our own speaking. Public speaking, much like singing, isn’t about maintaining a constant tone. To keep your audience engaged, you need to vary your delivery - bring in light and shade. You can change your tone, your pace, and your volume to emphasize key points, add emotion, or give the audience a moment to absorb what you've said. Don't be afraid of pauses; they can be just as powerful as a well-timed sentence. Use silence to create suspense, or to give your listeners time to reflect on what you’ve just shared.

3. Make It Your Own.  A key aspect of Cynthia’s performance was how she made the song her own.  The Wicked songs are well known – but she’s given us her own personal take on them.  While the song may have been written by others, her delivery made it feel deeply personal. The same should be true for your presentations. Too often, we try to emulate other speakers or follow the “correct” way of presenting. But your voice, your message, and your delivery should be uniquely yours. When you step onto the stage - whether it's a literal stage or the metaphorical stage of a conference room - make the presentation your own. Infuse it with your personality, your style, your perspective. If you're nervous, embrace it; use it to fuel your energy. When you are authentic and true to yourself, your audience will be more likely to connect with your message. 

4. Perfect Your Stagecraft.  Cynthia Erivo's ability to command the stage with grace, power, and poise is undeniable. But it’s not just about having a beautiful voice; it’s about perfecting her stagecraft. Every step, every gesture, every movement was intentional and calculated to enhance the performance. The same goes for your presentation. Stagecraft in speaking isn’t just about where you stand or what you wear; it’s about using your body to complement your words. Stand tall, move with purpose, and use your hands to emphasize key points. Your body language can convey confidence and help engage the audience. Don’t just stand still behind a podium. Move across the stage if you can, make eye contact with different members of your audience, and let your gestures help tell the story you're sharing.

*5. Consider Your Audience and the Stage.  Another lesson we can take from Cynthia’s performance is how she fully understands her audience and the stage she is performing on. She adjusted her energy and approach to fit the setting. In the same way, your presentation should be tailored to your audience and the environment you are in. What works in a small meeting might not work in front of a large crowd. Similarly, the way you present in a casual setting may differ from the way you present in a formal conference. Before any presentation, take the time to consider your audience. What do they expect? What do they care about? What tone will resonate with them? And think about the setting—whether it’s a small boardroom, a large auditorium, or even a virtual stage. Adjust your delivery accordingly so that your message lands in the most effective way possible. 

6. Embrace Timings, Pace, and Pauses.  If there’s one thing Cynthia Erivo excels at, it’s timing. Her ability to pace her performance and hold a note just long enough, creating dramatic pauses and unexpected moments, makes her one of the most riveting performers of our time. When you present, think about the rhythm of your speech. Don’t rush through your points. Embrace pauses. Silence can be powerful—whether it’s a pause for effect, a moment for your audience to reflect, or a way to build suspense. Use timing to your advantage to emphasize your key points. Pacing is also essential. If you talk too quickly, your audience may struggle to keep up; if you drag out your words too much, you risk losing their attention. Practice speaking at a comfortable pace, and vary the speed depending on what you're trying to convey. If you want to emphasize a point, slow down. If you're telling an exciting story or building up to something, speed up a little to bring energy and excitement to the room. 

In Conclusion.  Cynthia Erivo’s unforgettable performance at the Academy Awards was a masterclass in connection, timing, and authenticity. As we watch her command the stage, we can’t help but draw parallels to the art of public speaking. Just as she connects with every word and uses light and shade to create an emotional journey, we must learn to connect with our words, master our delivery, and tailor our performances for our audience. 

The next time you prepare for a presentation, channel a bit of Cynthia Erivo's energy. Don’t just speak—perform. Connect with your words, find your rhythm, embrace pauses, and most importantly, make it your own. When you step onto the stage, remember that speaking is an art—and with the right approach, you too can deliver a performance that leaves a lasting impression.

For more about our presentation skills training programmes visit:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training