CLOCK WATCHING SPEAKERS GET PRESENTATION NERVES

Two thirds of presenters become nervous when asked to speak for a pre-determined time by a conference organiser.

In an anonymous survey by Time to Market, speakers were asked for their views about speaking for a set period of time.

Most speakers noted their typical presentation lasted for 45 minutes or so. Only one speaker was noted for their brevity – speaking typically for only 15 minutes.

Receiving a "5 minutes to go" signal might be expected to precipitate panic. But our speakers were made from sterner stuff. In an even distribution of results, some presenters noted "Oh my God!" Others remained calm and still others were convinced that they had never received such a signal...a remarkable contention given that two thirds of speakers routinely spoke beyond their allotted time.

But at least presenters' time keeping methods stand the test of time! Practice, rehearsal and the use of a watch or clock on the speaker's table were all cited as key time keeping tips.

Thankfully no one in the survey trusted in lucky trinkets or mascots to keep them on time. And, unusually perhaps, no one tried to memorise their presentation in an effort to stick to the time budget.

You can join in with this time management survey of presenters time keeping skills. We will update these results regularly.

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About Time to Market Effective Presentation Skills Courses

Based in Camberley and operational since 2001, Time to Market is a successful presentation skills training company running off-site skills training courses throughout the United Kingdom.

PresentPerfect^TM is a practical hands-on presentation skills course. Available in either a half day or a full day format the course combines one to one tuition, demonstration and individual practice. Open courses are available at selected venues for participants from any organisation. Class size is limited to six participants.

Tailored courses are available for participants exclusively from one organisation. All our training courses are off-site at specialist training locations.

Media Contact

Peter Bowler

Time to Market Ltd

peterbowler@timetomarket.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0)1276 804 633

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