Tips for Presenting with a Lectern

If you’re presenting to a large crowd, it's a good idea to use a lectern. There are lots of reasons why you should do this. First, it gives you a place to put your notes so that you don’t need to hold them in your hands. Second, it allows you something to hold onto and third it gives you a centre point on the stage. A place you can return to, even when moving during your presentation. But even if you are using a lectern you'll still need some tips on how to give the best performance.

Pre-Speech Checks

Before you begin your presentation, you need to make sure that the lectern is at the right height. Ideally, the lectern should be just below your chest. That way, it will be close enough to read your notes but it won’t conceal you completely. You should always have free movement of your arms, in case you need to emphasise a point.

Put Your Notes On Cue Cards

Ideally, you shouldn’t be using notes at all when presenting with a lectern. This is the advice given by some presentation experts. But at the same time, many people choose to use a lectern for the specific purpose of having notes. If you do use notes, put them on cue cards.

You will find it significantly easier to move through and maintain momentum throughout the presentation. It’s also possible to move the notes subtly on the lectern without people knowing you’re using prompts. And finally, it can be a lot less fidgety than sifting through pieces of paper stapled together.

Good Posture

You need to stand up straight when using a lectern. Good posture is important for two reasons. The first is that this will help you elevate your voice and reach the back of the room or the hall. Second, it will make you look a lot more confident in what you are saying, making your argument more persuasive.

Leaving The Lectern

If you like, you can use the lectern as a homing key. This means you can leave the lectern and walk around the stage. This might be a good idea if you are giving a speech to a large crowd or audience. You want to connect with everyone in the room and it’s not always possible standing in one place. It’s also wise if you're completing a long speech. Watching someone stay in one spot for over an hour can get rather boring!

Take these tips on board and you will find your next presentation with a lectern goes smoothly. Don’t forget the key to any good presentation is engaging the audience.

Choosing the Right Lectern for Your Venue