Avoid Being Out On A Limb During a Big Presentation
- JD Solomon
- Jul 18
- 2 min read
Decision makers expect clarity and confidence. They also expect technical professionals to be ready when the unexpected happens. Unfortunately, many of your colleagues and even your boss will avoid the hot lights of a big presentation. Help your decision makers and help yourself by having multiple layers of backup.
Establish a Bench of Knowledgeable Presenters
Your first layer of backup is people. And it’s your job, as the lead presenter, to make sure they have your back. Your backups should understand the core message and their simple message for speaking if you defer to them. They do not need to be polished speakers.
Prepare Supplemental Technical Depth
Our second layer of backup is information. Decision makers should ask questions that go beyond the main narrative (brief initial presentation). Supplemental material provides the ability to respond without scrambling. The backup presenters should understand the boundaries of the supplemental information. The goal is to demonstrate that the team has done the work and can support your recommendation from multiple angles.
Practice the Hand‑Off
Backup only works if the transition is smooth. That means the backups have to have agreed to fill the role. Then commit to a few practiced handoffs, at least to the point where decision makers get the impression that your team is aligned and prepared for uncertainty.
The Tip: Have Layers of Backup
Layers of backup are part of professional communication. They keep decisions moving and reinforce your credibility when conditions change. They are also part of being a team. Don’t find yourself out on a limb at your next big presentation. The responsibility is yours.
JD Solomon champions practical communication skills that help technical professionals convey complex ideas clearly and confidently. Learn more at www.jdsolomonsolutions.com and www.communicatingwithfinesse.com.
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