When we think of delivering a presentation, we typically imagine standing in front of a large audience and referencing the slideshow on the huge projector screen behind us. However, many meetings and presentations actually take place on a much smaller scale. Speaking to a group of fewer than ten people is quite different than presenting in front of a large audience. While you may not need to worry as much about the logistics of working microphones and audio visual equipment, you will have to place a bit more emphasis on making that personal connection since your audience will only be a few feet away. The planning and preparation for a small group presentation is much different, considering what works in an auditorium might not work in a boardroom. Here are a few tips to help you prepare a presentation for a small group.
Know Your Audience
When speaking to a small group, there is usually a tighter focus on the content so it is critical that your material specifically applies to the group. It is important to gather as much information as possible about your audience in advance. Who will be attending the presentation? How much do they already know about the topic? What are they trying to gain from your presentation? You want to make sure the material you present is relevant and useful to the group. A small group presentation is less about entertaining the audience and more about delivering useful information.
Be Prepared to Interact
Unlike large audiences, small groups often interact closely, conversing with one another, sharing notes, and even collaborating to make decisions or solve problems. Therefore, you can’t spend the entire presentation talking to the group. You have to stop occasionally to give the group a chance to ask questions, share comments, or offer feedback. It is important to conduct activities that will get the group talking to one another so you can be sure everyone is actively engaged in the presentation.
Pay Attention to Non-Verbals
Because you will be in close proximity to your audience, you will have a better opportunity to see how well they are keeping up with you by watching their facial expressions. You can tell they are understanding when you see them nodding their head in agreement. Likewise, you will be able to recognize puzzled looks when they are confused. Slow down and clarify points when necessary if you see a few audience members looking lost. Stop and allow them to ask questions when needed and don’t continue moving on until everyone understands the content.
Know Your Material
This may seem obvious because you would assume that any presenter should be pretty knowledgeable about the topic. However, small group presenters need to be more than knowledgeable…they need to be experts! A small group is more likely to engage with you directly, asking questions and probing for further information and you have to be prepared to answer. Unlike presenting to a large audience, you won’t have time to fluff up your talk with fancy slides and clever jokes. Rather, you will be in direct conversation with your audience so you need to have a very strong knowledge of the content.
Provide a Copy of Your Slide Deck
When speaking to a small group, you should provide each audience member with a copy of your slide deck. This makes it easier for everyone to follow along and gives everyone a place to jot down notes and highlight important information. It can also be helpful to leave some blank space between points on the slide deck so audience members can write a few of their own notes. Typically, handwritten notes tend to stick with people longer and make more of a lasting impression.
