Your presentation is glitching during a live demo. How do you keep your cool under pressure?

1 Stay Prepared

The best defense against a presentation glitch is a good offense, and that means preparation. Before you step into the spotlight, familiarize yourself with the equipment and software you'll be using. Run through your presentation several times to ensure everything flows smoothly. Have a checklist of all the components you need, like chargers, adapters, and backup files. If possible, visit the venue beforehand to test their setup. This kind of preparation can prevent many issues and will also give you a confidence boost.

2 Remain Calm

When a glitch occurs, your initial reaction might be to panic, but it's crucial that you remain calm. Take a deep breath and remember that your audience is rooting for you to succeed. They're likely to be forgiving of technical issues, which are often out of your control. Maintain a positive demeanor and use humor if it's appropriate. This can help diffuse any tension and keep the audience on your side while you address the issue.

3 Engage Audience

If the glitch can't be resolved quickly, use it as an opportunity to engage with your audience. Ask them questions or encourage discussion about the topic at hand. This not only diverts attention away from the technical difficulties but also adds an interactive element to your presentation that can be very effective. By involving your audience, you create a collaborative atmosphere and may even gain valuable insights or new perspectives on your topic.

4 Have Backups

Always have a backup plan for your presentation. This could mean having a copy of your slides on a USB drive or accessible through an email, just in case there's an issue with your primary device. If you're relying on videos or live demonstrations, consider having screenshots or detailed descriptions ready to go. Being prepared with alternatives ensures that even if something goes awry, you can continue delivering your message without significant disruption.

5 Simplify Tech

In some cases, simplifying your technology can be the best approach to avoiding complications. Instead of relying heavily on videos or complex animations, you might focus on strong visuals and clear points on your slides. This not only minimizes the potential for technical issues but also keeps the focus on you and your message. Remember, the technology is there to support your presentation, not to overshadow it.

6 Wrap Up Gracefully

If all else fails and you're unable to resolve the technical issues, it's important to wrap up your presentation gracefully. Acknowledge the glitch, summarize your key points, and offer to follow up with additional information if necessary. Thanking your audience for their patience and understanding reinforces that you're a professional, capable of handling unexpected challenges with grace.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?