Summary
How to Do a Travel Presentation
If someone had told me years ago that I would one day be speaking at conferences, I would have laughed it off with a “Yeah, right!”.
Oh, wait a minute, someone did tell me a few years ago that I should look into public speaking – the argument was that my ‘investment banker to blogger entrepreneur’ background would be an inspiring story to share.
However, that suggestion was met with a pursed-lipped “Hmmmm” and a shake of my head.
Prepare for Professional Speaking Engagements
The idea of standing in front of a crowd always intimidated me. Although I had experience chairing meetings or presenting products, facing hundreds of people was daunting.
As time passed and my blog grew, I realized that my experience creating the Velvet Escape brand, building the blog, and promoting it through social media could benefit others.
Moreover, I saw public speaking as a valuable opportunity to market my brand and expand my audience. It’s something I had to pursue to take my brand further.
Start Doing Small Presentations
I decided to test my speaking skills by organizing blogging seminars in Amsterdam. To my surprise, I found that I enjoyed public speaking.
Initially, I used small cards to guide my notes. However, by the second seminar, I realized they were distracting, prompting me to discard them as I was confident in my subject matter.
First Lesson – Know the Story
This was my first lesson: know your story and share it naturally. Eliminate anything that hinders the storytelling process.
Thus, I stood confidently in front of the audience and spoke freely, using my slides merely as a backdrop. The seminars became valuable venues for testing my speaking skills and exploring various techniques.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at various events including Travel Bloggers Unite, GoMedia Canada, and the World Travel Market in London.
Showcase Your Expertise
Public speaking serves as an excellent platform to showcase your expertise and gain exposure for your blog beyond your typical circles.
Furthermore, it can create additional income sources. Travel bloggers can discuss a wide array of topics with different potential audiences.
For instance, experienced travel bloggers may target fellow bloggers, sharing insights on blogging techniques, writing, photography, social media, or SEO.
If you have a motivational story, consider reaching out to schools or companies looking for inspirational speakers.
Tips to Prepare for your Presentation
One effective mental technique I use is viewing the presentation as a ‘story-telling’ session rather than a formal presentation. You’re there to share your own story.
This mindset helps me relax and boosts my confidence—similar to a technique I employed during interviews in my banking days.
Preparation
- Choose a topic you’re comfortable with that showcases your expertise.
- While I use PowerPoint for my slides, there are several sophisticated programs available for creating presentations.
- Keep text on your slides brief and concise.
- Select relevant images that enhance your message.
- Visualize your story as you create your slides and make notes.
Presenting
- Dress appropriately, as you are representing your brand!
- Decide in advance whether to hold notes or another item that makes you feel comfortable. It could be anything from your notes to a warm cup of tea, fostering a casual atmosphere.
- Select a spot where you are clearly visible to the audience. Movement is advisable, but don’t overdo it to avoid distracting the audience.
- Engage with friendly faces scattered throughout the audience to create a connection.
- Effective body language is crucial. Stand tall, move confidently, and maintain eye contact. You’re the expert, so keep hand gestures minimal and purposeful. A smile goes a long way!
- Speak clearly and vary your tone to maintain interest.
- Occasionally refer to your slides to reinforce key points.
- Interact with your audience by prompting responses through humor (if appropriate), references to individuals, or asking questions.
Feedback
After your presentation, seek feedback from the audience regarding the subject matter and your delivery style.
Inquire about their takeaways to further enhance your presentation skills and techniques.
Happy speaking!
Follow Keith Jenkins for further speaking engagements available on social media strategies for branding, travel blogging insights, and promoting destinations through social platforms.
Connect with Keith on Twitter and Facebook.
