Public Speaking Tip: Floor Check

Make it a point to check the area you will be walking on during your presentation. Risers are notorious for being wobbly. The gaps between them can catch your shoes. Check the entire surface area by walking in each area and listening for loud thumps and squeaks. Check the stairs up to the risers for placement and sturdiness. Even if you are not using a riser, cords to your projection equipment can get in your way. Make sure they are taped down with good quality duct tape or high quality "gaffer tape." If you do trip during a presentation have some one liners ready like, "Well, I had a good trip and I'll see you next fall," or "So much for all those poise and charm lessons I had as a kid, " or "No wonder I got kicked out of Arthur Murray”