Weekly Computer Tip # 165
4 August 2006

techniques for running panic-free presentations (Microsoft PowerPoint)

In some earlier tips in this series we looked at how to use some of PowerPoint's features that allow us more control over the slide show presentation itself. Remember F5, n, p, b, w? (See tips 144, 153 and 160 in the ever-growing archive on http://www.roem.co.uk/hints.html.)

Well, have you ever sat through a PowerPoint presentation where the presenter was "all over the place", trying to change between different applications or files? Or perhaps you recognise yourself in that? To make the whole experience a bit less nerve-racking you might want to try out the following keyboard shortcuts while delivering your PowerPoint presentation:

1. To display the Windows taskbar: press CTRL + T
2. To display the Start menu: press WIN

(The WIN(dows) key is the key with the Windows logo on it, to the left of the ALT key.)

Both the Start menu and the taskbar will let you easily access the necessary items on your computer, without loosing your cool. Which brings me to the following ...

I know from experience that it is one thing to create a really good PowerPoint slide show, yet it is another to stand up in front of people and give a faultless, confident and relaxed performance.

Which is why I've teamed up with writer and coach Mike Levy and turned the Boost PowerPoint beyond bullets seminar, planned for 20 September, into a full day. Mike has written three books on presentation skills and is an experienced business and executive coach. In one short session, he will teach you the tricks of the trade of a fluent and engaging speaker.

You will learn how to present your slide show in a professional manner. Mike will show you how to keep your audience with you, how to present yourself and your material, how to communicate with the audience and make sure they really get the most out of your PowerPoint performance.

Full day seminar price: GBP194 (+ VAT) which includes:

• Lunch and refreshments
• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) approved seminar handout with a CD packed with exercise files
• One month post course advice personally from Karen, founder of Roem Limited

Book before 31 August and receive a copy of Mike's book "Presentations Made Easy" (RRP GBP9.99). He'll even sign it for you! ;-)

Make sure you don't miss out ... email Karen@roem.co.uk or ring 01223 214177).

Until next week.

PS I’m committed to sharing the best of what I know with others so please don’t keep me a secret. If you enjoyed today’s tip, please forward it to anyone you feel may benefit. Alternatively, feel free to reprint it (with full copyright and subscription information) in your newsletters and message boards.

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