Along with your CV and cover letter and a brief meeting, your employer may want to find out more about your skills and your ability to produce a presentation. This may be because the role you are applying for will include regular presentations, or there is a need to communicate effectively in the position. 

With the issues surrounding Covid-19, the interview process may require for you to conduct online presentations through various channels such as Zoom. However, if using the traditional method, there are things you have to take into consideration and prepare for. 
 
The thought of doing a presentation in an interview you’re already nervous for, can be daunting. Some people may be comfortable wit it, others not so comfortable. 
 
There are various methods of practice you can undertake to be prepared and ready to deliver a presentation, we’ll share some with you in this blog. 
 
Preparation is key. Your interview success may be heavily dependent on how your interviewer sees your presentation. To put yourself in the best position to succeed, prepare well. Carefully think about the messages you want to get across to your audience during the presentation. Consider the following: Who will you be presenting to? Potential colleague? Someone senior? What will the subject of the presentation be on? How long will the presentation be? 

Find answers to these questions and prepare your presentation around it. 

Find The Right Structure 

Setting out the structure of your presentation will bring you great benefit. This will help you stay on top of your presentation and it will be easier for the audience to follow you. A clear introduction, followed by a compelling argument and memorable conclusion. You could even throw in some examples to back up any points you make. Perhaps include example of if you were in the new position, how you would go about solving issues. This will display your proactive nature. 

Practice Your Presentation 

Practice, practice and more practice. This is a great way to help you become familiar with your presentation. Ensure that you are happy with your design and the slides within the presentation and aim to make any changes well ahead of presentation day. You may prefer practicing alone, but it could be worth practicing in front of family and friends to get used to the feeling. They could also provide you with feedback. Any information visible on your slides or you are giving out at the end of the interview, make sure it is clear and easy to understand. 

Use Your Voice Efficiently 

This can be a challenge for those who are shy and not the most vocal, however, the tone of your voice will set the presentation. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to shout in the presentation (unless you’re presenting to a mass crowd). Speak efficiently with a clear voice and ensure that you are easy to understand. 

Varying the speed at which you talk, and emphasising changes in pitch and tone all help to make your voice more interesting and hold your audience’s attention.

Smile and Make Eye Contact With Your Audience 

Your audience will do their best to engage with your presentation; but how are you engaging with them? Start your presentation with a big smile to set the tone, and try to make eye contact with your audience as frequently as possible. It also helps you to feel less nervous, because you are talking to individuals, not to a great mass of unknown people.

Your presentation is like a journey, ensure you audience is fully-engaged with your content and story. Leave a lasting impression.