Bring your personality
Earlier in this course, we talked about the importance of knowing yourself as a presenter. Keep that self-knowledge in mind as you start to present. Be alive while presenting, but be yourself. You don't have to be Bill Cosby or Jerry Seinfeld to earn the audience's interest, but you do have to show that you care about this topic to sell its importance.
If you focus on facing the audience and on making eye contact, you will have a much easier time reading their reactions to you and what you are saying. This skill does require a little sensitivity: you have to look for clues in body language and facial expression. Are they snoring? Fidgeting? Looking angry or bored? This is real-time feedback: use it now to make immediate adjustments and remember it for next time so you can improve your overall structure.
Some of the best presentations start with the simple realization that you (the presenter) are not the smartest person in the room. Even if it's a room full of kindergarteners, assume that you have something to learn from every person assembled and make the most of this presentation as an opportunity to gather their perspectives and expertise. This is especially true when addressing working adults. Encouraging your audience to ask questions not only keeps the audience engaged, it helps you make sure that you are giving your attendees what they need. So make time to answer questions. When you don't have exact answers, don't make up a plausible-sounding answer or supply an "I'm not sure, but here's what I would guess" answer. Write down the questions you aren't sure about and be sure to follow up with an answer within a few days.
Make sure you provide written materials as take-homes for your audience. This is a fantastic sales opportunity, so don't forget to put your name and contact information at least on the front and back cover of any print matter you give out.