A Presentation to Attorneys Checklist (Part 2)
You’ve been invited to give a presentation to attorneys. You are excited. You’ve asked the questions about logistics so you know how to prepare (see part 1). These tips apply to what to do the day of the event.
PREPARATION
Are you crystal clear on the location of the event?
Did you allow yourself enough time to be on time even if there is traffic?
Did you allow enough time to set up your table with proper signage, materials in a clean, polished, engaging manner?
Did you speak to the host on arrival?
Did you introduce yourself to other speakers and sponsors?
Did you check in at registration? As a speaker there may be a different registration process and escort to guide you to your area.
Did you thank the host and bring a note card or something with your business branding? (It’s always important to show a little tender love and care.)
Did you make sure your host knows exactly what you need in terms of AV, food, your area to setup before the event begins?
Did you ask the host if the schedule is still on track and there are no adjustments in timing needed?
Is there a room where you can relax before your talk (sometimes called a green room)?
(It’s essential before you speak to be calm, composed, and confident!)
Drink water and fuel up (but not so much that you have to go to the bathroom before your talk is over.)
Do you have a person designated to take pictures of you when you are making your presentation?
Did you confirm the AV system is working properly?
At sound check be sure to take your time familiarizing yourself with the stage, screen positioning, type of mic you are using, clicker, confidence monitors, and of course make sure all AV needs are functioning properly.
Are you in the room at least a full session prior to your time on stage?
DURING YOUR PRESENTATION TO ATTORNEYS
Do you have your introduction typed out in size 14 font?
Did you tell the person introducing you to read your intro exactly the way you wrote it?
Do you have a method of keeping time?
Do you know when you are supposed to stop speaking?
Do you glance at each part of the room while you speak?
Do you avoid speaking too close to the microphone?
Do you repeat questions that are asked of you before you respond?
POST EVENT
Did you thank each person who assisted you: AV, contact and key staff?
Did you pack supplies and collect items you need to bring back and/or ship back?
If you collected attorneys’ business cards, did you enter them into your database?
Did you follow up with appropriate contacts to set up appointments for future calls?
Did you send key staff for the event handwritten thank yous?
Pat Iyer MSN RN LNCC has made a presentation to attorneys at state and national conferences, teaching about medical records, hot tips for getting the most of expert witnesses, pain and suffering reports, and other topics.
Are you looking for tips on how to give polished presentations to attorneys? Listen to Carol Little’s podcast at this link. Her topic is The Secret of Being an Effective Speaker.
Modified from Red Elephant Speakers’ Checklist