3 presentation tips from the world champion of public speaking

Vasudevan says that as a messenger, you are performing a service for your audience rather than speaking for your own validation.

“You seek to serve, to inspire without seeking validation or credit,” he says. “You acknowledge your sources of wisdom, you expose your vulnerabilities, you become real and you connect better.”

Vasudevan says this resonates well with audiences and inspires them to act. He points to Mahatma Gandhi, a great messenger, who wasn’t a particularly great speaker.

“His presence, his body language, [and] voice were not masterful, but real,” says Vasudevan. “He let his message speak louder than his mechanics, because he saw himself only as a messenger of hope, non-violence and courage. People connected better.”

When you have a presentation to give, don’t rush to craft it or design your PowerPoint slides, says Vasudevan.

First, figure out the fundamentals of the presentation and your ultimate goal. Some questions you can ask yourself to determine this include: What do you want your audience to feel? What do you want to unveil? What can you let them discover? Perhaps, a new finding, research data, trend or an “aha” moment.

“Steve Jobs was a master in packing into his presentation moments of revelation,” says Vasudevan.

When you do not know your fundamentals, he says, the result is too much information and no impact — only confusion and unanswered questions.

“As you craft your presentation, keep your eyes on your fundamentals and ensure that whatever you say is aligned with them,” says Vasudevan.