Silence is silver, speaking is gold: How to succeed in your self-presentation

Introducing yourself to several people, telling a story or convincing people - sometimes it's easier said than done. From self-presentation in a job interview to asserting yourself in a discussion to professional or private presentations : anyone who can appear confident and convey their message clearly has a very useful skill. However, self-presentation requires a number of skills and can also pose challenges . In this story, we look at the most important skills for giving good presentations. Here you will find exercises , tips and examples to improve your self-presentation - regardless of whether you have already spoken in front of a thousand people or are just preparing your first presentation.

This is how the top speakers do it: Examples of confident self-presentation

Who better to show us how to appear confident and give inspiring, exciting self-presentations than some of the most famous top speakers of our time? For example:

• Steve Ballmer: The former CEO of Microsoft is known for his passionate and energetic presentations. He captivates listeners with his ability to make complex topics understandable while creating an emotional connection with the audience.
• Mel Robbins: She has made a name for herself through her practical and motivating lectures. Robbins uses personal experiences and scientific findings to inspire her audience and give them valuable tools for everyday life.
• Brené Brown: Her research on shame and vulnerability has made her a sought-after speaker. Brown impresses with her ability to present difficult topics with humor and empathy.
• Vinh Quang Giang: Giang captivates his audiences with his unique approach that combines psychology, magic and storytelling. His lectures are characterized by his passion for communication.

These top speakers are characterized by various criteria: passion , authenticity , in-depth knowledge and the ability to create an emotional connection with the audience. But how exactly do they manage to appear so self-assured, confident and speak freely? We have collected exercises and examples in the form of 10 tips that you can use to give a good presentation and improve your self-presentation .

Tip 1: Thorough preparation is key

The first step to a successful self-presentation - for example, at a lecture or a job interview - begins long before the actual appearance : research your topic in detail and analyze your target group or the person you are speaking to beforehand. What moves your audience? What questions and expectations do they have or could they have? Based on this, you can determine the structure of your self-presentation and formulate the core messages.

From preparation to presentation – Dextro Energy* accompanies you

Good preparation also includes the right nutrients to nourish your body. Especially for longer self-presentations, optimal nutrition can help you to deliver focused and motivated. For example, you can find delicious Focus Gummies ° , muesli bars for when you're a little hungry and our Dextro Minis that fit in any pocket. And of course glucose cubes - with quickly available carbohydrates that go straight to your brain. Perfect just before your presentation or job interview.

Tip 2: Recognize and use your own strengths and weaknesses

Everyone has individual characteristics and abilities : some are extroverted and love being the center of attention. Others are more reserved and feel uncomfortable when all eyes are on them. To give a good presentation, it is important to know your own strengths and weaknesses and to use them in a targeted manner.

• Introverted speakers shine in self-presentations, for example, through their deep expertise, precise expression and detailed preparation. If they make the presentation topic their own, they can convince people with a passionate speech.

• Extroverted personalities often score points with charisma and enthusiasm. Good research, a rough structure of the presentation and repeated practice can be enough for them to speak freely successfully.

Find your individual style instead of pretending. Authenticity is the key factor for your credibility and sovereignty.

Tip 3: Storytelling – convince with stories

People love stories . Whether from shamans around the campfire, bards at the knightly court or influencers like Emma Chamberlain in front of their millions of followers: for thousands of years, experiences, values ​​and knowledge have been passed on in the form of stories. And convincing storytellers have been and are rewarded with influence and recognition . You too can use the power of storytelling to effectively convey your message in presentations, lectures or job interviews. Anecdotes , examples and metaphors make complex issues understandable and arouse emotions in your audience. This is how you can anchor your statements in their memory. If you need inspiration : just take a look at the programs of the best stand-up comedians in the world. By the way: brevity is often the soul of wit. Sometimes we don't have much time for a presentation or to introduce a good idea. Then it's time for the art of the elevator pitch , in which you have to tell your story in a very short time. Practicing these extremely short presentations can help you to never lose sight of the core message of your storytelling.

Tip 4: Body language and voice – learn to be confident

Body language and voice have a huge influence on how your message is received by the audience during a presentation. Pay attention to your posture , gestures and facial expressions . An upright , open posture during your presentation signals self-confidence and competence. Play with the volume of your voice and with accents and pauses to emphasize particularly important statements. Articulate clearly so that everyone in the room can understand you well. You can improve by practicing in front of a mirror or a camera . By the way: If your practice video is really good, you might be able to incorporate it into your presentation - for a multimedia self-presentation.

 

A good self-presentation makes the difference – both professionally and privately.

Tip 5: Interaction with the audience

A rousing lecture depends on the interaction between speaker and audience.

• Make eye contact with different listeners in the room to build a personal connection.
• Actively involve your audience by asking questions, requesting opinions or encouraging a short exchange of ideas.
• Observe your audience's reactions and respond flexibly. Do they show approval or skepticism? Adjust your argument accordingly and try to address concerns.

Lively interaction keeps your audience attentive and enables a two-way exchange – whether during a presentation, an important speech or a job interview.

Tip 6: Use visualizations

Visual elements lighten up your presentation and help the audience to understand complex connections more quickly:

• Sketches and mind maps: You can either bring these with you or even create them live on a whiteboard or blackboard. This will give you more variety in your self-presentation and, if appropriate, you can involve your audience in the design.

• Videos: Pre-producing or including videos offers many possibilities for both introverted and extroverted speakers. With modern technologies and software such as Canva, AI and mobile phone cameras, you can professionally produce tutorials, stories and more and reduce your speaking time. Thanks to pausing, you can interact with the audience at any time to actively participate.

• Real objects and models: If it makes sense to bring something, you can also capture your audience with products, prototypes or 3D models. By bringing something that your audience can touch and pass on, you also stimulate the sense of touch, which literally makes your topic more tangible.

• Charts and graphics: From surveys to timelines to measurements, you can visually anchor meaningful numbers, percentages or points even better in the minds of your audience.

Whether it’s pictures, videos, graphics or props – you can be creative to illustrate your message.

Tip 7: See stage fright as a positive motivation

Did you know that stage fright is actually a positive motivator? Physical activation sharpens your senses and gives you additional presence . Try not to be afraid of the excitement or nervousness before a presentation, then it won't limit you. However, if you feel that stage fright is blocking you during presentations etc., you can try different methods : Whether you want to boost your self-confidence , relax or focus better - there are some tips and tricks that can help you get the excitement before a presentation under control.

Tip 8: Stay flexible and deal with breakdowns

Even the best preparation does not protect you from unforeseen incidents : technical problems, unexpected questions or disruptions in the process can throw any speaker off track. It is crucial that you remain flexible and handle such situations confidently .

• Plan for possible problems in advance and think about alternative scenarios. What do you do if the projector breaks down or someone keeps interrupting?
• Stay calm and don't let yourself get upset. Respond to disruptions with humor or quick wit.
• Try to be relaxed : accept that not everything has to go perfectly, stay authentic and deviate from the plan if there is no other option: trust yourself and present your topic as you would present it to a friend.

Tip 9: Conclusion and appeal to the audience

A rousing presentation also needs a strong conclusion . A good quote or an inspiring anecdote can round off your self-presentation in a memorable way. Use the last few minutes to make a motivating appeal to your audience. What impulses for action do you want to set? If you manage to get people to leave the room inspired and full of energy after your presentation, you have achieved your goal .

Tip 10: Learn from mistakes and develop further

After your presentation, actively seek feedback from the participants. What went well, what can be improved? Constructive criticism helps you to develop your strengths and work on your weaknesses.

Whether it's a job interview, a lecture or a discussion: after your self-presentation, take time to breathe and reflect on everything. See every presentation as an opportunity to learn and develop yourself further . Perseverance, willingness to learn and the desire for constant improvement are what characterize successful speakers. Because even the greatest started small .

* contains carbohydrates

°Vitamin C, B6 and B12 each contribute to normal psychological function, normal energy metabolism, normal functioning of the nervous system and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

A varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important.

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