When it comes to presentations, your visual aids matter. In this video, public speaking coach Marianna Swallow and storyteling strategist Randy Ford talk about the importance of visual components, point out the one big PowerPoint mistake speakers make, and share best visual practices for your presentation.

An important (and often overlooked!) component of presenting is timing. How do you account for your speaking time when there are so many other components in your speech? We’ve got you covered with a few quick tips. Make time to plan your timing, and you’ll keep your audience happy.

The oldest saw in public speaking is “know your audience.” This is important, but not always realistic. What if your audience contains newbies, non-native English speakers, or people who don’t get your pop culture references? We have some tips for you.

Part of presenting is being fully prepared. This means beyond your speech and Power Point slides. Do a little research on your audience - and your room - before you present.

It’s not elegant, and it doesn’t have to be. It works.