How to Become a Good Presenter | Bài thảo luận tiếng anh thương mại

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING
THUONG MAI UNIVERSITY
FACULTY OF ENGLISH DISCUSSION
HOW TO BECOME A GOOD PRESENTER SUBJECT: Business English 2.2 CLASSCODE: 251_ENPR5311_04
LECTURER: Trần Thị Bích Lan GROUP: 4 Ha Noi, 2025
BUSINESS ENGLISH 2.2
Topic: How to become a good presenter Group: 4 Class: 251_ENPR5311_04
Lecturer: Trần Thị Bích Lan Group preparation assessment:
………………………………………………………
Presentation assessment: List of students No Name Mission Mark 29 Hồ Thị Thùy Linh Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 1. Key Qualities of a
Good Presenter – Sections 1.1 & 1.2 30 Lê Khánh Linh Introduction and Slides 31 Nguyễn Hoài Linh Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 4. Challenges and Solutions 32 Vũ Thị Thùy Linh Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 2. Overcoming Stage
Fright – Sections 2.2 & 2.3 33 Bùi Ngọc Mai Conclusion and Slides 34 Phạm Thị Nga Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 3. Strategies to
Become a Good Presenter – Sections 3.1 & 3.2 35 Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 3. Strategies to
Become a Good Presenter – Sections 3.3 & 3.4 36
Nguyễn Phương Nhi Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 1. Key Qualities of a
Good Presenter – Sections 1.1 & 1.2 37
Trần nguyễn Yến Nhi Responsible for preparing and
presenting Part 2. Overcoming Stage Fright – Section 2.1
MEETING MINUTES - GROUP: 4 Date: 30th September 2025 Time: 22h30 - 23h00 Place: Online - Google meet Participants: 9/9
Contents for discussing:
-Developed the discussion outline.
-Distributed and coordinated tasks among team members. Leader
(Signature and na Vũ Thị Thùy Linh
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A - INTRODUCTION......................................................................................5
B - MAIN CONTENTS....................................................................................6
1. Key Qualities of a Good Presenter..............................................................6
2. Overcoming Stage Fright.............................................................................8
2.1. Understanding the causes of stage fright...................................................8
2.2. Psychological Techniques..........................................................................9
2.3. Practical Strategies.....................................................................................9
3. Strategies to Become a Good Presenter....................................................10
3.1. Preparation...............................................................................................10
3.2. Use of visual and technological aids........................................................10
3.3. Delivery techniques..................................................................................11
4. Challenges and Solutions...........................................................................11
C - CONCLUSION.........................................................................................13 A - INTRODUCTION
The concept of a “good presenter” extends beyond the ability to speak fluently
or with confidence. A good presenter is characterized by the capacity to convey
ideas clearly, engage the audience effectively, and adapt communication
strategies to different situations. Presentation, therefore, should not be
perceived merely as the act of speaking in front of an audience, but rather as a
comprehensive skill that combines clarity, s tructure, and interpersonal effectiveness.
The significance of presentation skills is evident across multiple domains. In academic contexts, they
enable students and researchers to articulate
arguments, share findings, and demonstrate understanding in a coherent and
persuasive manner. Within professional environments, strong presentation skills are often essential for leadership, collaboration, and the successful
exchange of ideas, whether in meetings, negotiations, or public events. Even in
social contexts, the ability to present oneself and one’s perspectives contributes
to personal confidence, relationship-building, and effective communication.
For these reasons, presentation skills are widely regarded as a crucial
component of personal and professional development in the modern era.
The purpose of this discussion is to examine the qualities, strategies, and
challenges associated with becoming a good presenter. Specifically, the paper
will address the key attributes that define effective presenters, methods for
overcoming common difficulties such as stage fright, and practical strategies
for continuous improvement. By exploring these aspects, the discussion aims to
provide a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes effective
presentation and how individuals can cultivate this essential skill.
B - MAIN CONTENTS
1. Key Qualities of a Good Presenter
1.1. Confidence and Self-Awareness
Building credibility through posture and voice. A presenter who stands
tall, maintains eye contact, and speaks with a steady, clear voice instantly
appears more trustworthy. Confident body language reassures the audience that
the presenter knows their subject. For example: Imagine a presenter
introducing a new product. Instead of slouching and mumbling, they stand
upright, make eye contact with the audience, and say, “This product will
transform the way you work.” The tone and posture alone create authority.
Recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses . Good presenters
understand their unique style. Maybe they are great storytellers but need to
manage their pacing. Acknowledging these aspects allows them to maximize
strengths while improving weak areas. For Example: A presenter might realize
they tend to speak too quickly when nervous. To compensate, they rehearse
with pauses and emphasize keywords. This makes their delivery calmer and more effective.
1.2. Clarity of Communication
Using simple and precise language. Presenters should avoid jargon and
use words that everyone can understand. This ensures the message is not only heard but remembered. For Example: Instead of saying, “Our operational
efficiency has experienced a significant positive trajectory,” a clear presenter
would say, “We’re working faster and getting better results.”
Structuring ideas logically. A logical flow keeps the audience engaged
and helps them retain information. Using the “beginning–middle–end”
structure is powerful: start with an introduction, develop the main points, and end with a strong conclusion.
For Example: In a presentation about healthy
living, the speaker might structure it as:
- Introduction: Why health matters.
- Main Points: Nutrition, exercise, mental well-being.
- Conclusion: Call to action - “Start with one small habit today.”
1.3. Audience Engagement Eye Contact and Body Language
. A good presenter always connects
with the audience through eye contact and confident body language. Instead of
staring at slides or reading notes word for word, look directly at your audience,
shift your gaze around the room so everyone feels included. Combine that with
natural gestures, an open posture, and a genuine smile to emphasize your points.
For example, imagine a teacher who stands still, reading from the textbook, the
class quickly loses interest. But when that teacher walks around, gestures naturally, and looks at students while speaking, the energy in the room
completely changes. This builds trust and keeps people interested.
Encouraging Interaction and Feedback . Another essential part of
engagement is encouraging interaction. Don’t let your talk be a one-way street.
Ask questions, invite opinions, or add small activities like polls, short group
discussions, or quick hand-raising exercises. These simple actions make the
session more lively. For instance, if you’re presenting about social media
trends, you can ask: ‘How many of you checked Instagram today?’ and raise your hand. Instantly, your
audience feels involved and starts paying more
attention. When people take part, they also remember your message better.
1.4. Adaptability Adjusting to Audience Needs and Reactions . A skilled presenter is
flexible. Reading the room is just as important as preparing your slides. If you
notice that your audience looks confused or lost, slow down, give a clearer
example, or change your explanation. If they’re nodding, smiling, or leaning
forward with interest, you can skip some background details and go deeper into
the main points.Think about a conference speaker who senses boredom and
suddenly uses a story or a question to re-energize the room - that’s adaptability in action.
Handling Unexpected Challenges. Finally, unexpected challenges can
always happen - the microphone might stop working, slides won’t load, or
someone asks a very tough question. A good presenter stays calm, smiles, and
handles the situation professionally. For example, if your PowerPoint fails, you
can say: “It seems my slides are taking a short break - let me explain this part
to you without them.” This simple response shows confidence and reassures the audience that you are in control. Being prepared for the unexpected and
keeping your composure helps you maintain credibility and the audience’s trust.
2. Overcoming Stage Fright
2.1. Understanding the causes of stage fright Stage fright, or performance anxiety, is a common experience that
affects many people, whether they are speaking in public, performing on stage,
or presenting in front of a group. Understanding the causes of stage fright is the
first step in overcoming it. One major cause is the fear of judgment. Many
people worry about how the audience will perceive them, fearing criticism or
rejection. This fear often arises from the desire to appear perfect and to meet others’ expectations.
Another significant cause is a lack of preparation. When individuals feel
unprepared, they are more likely to experience nervousness and self-doubt.
Thorough preparation, such as practicing a speech or performance in advance,
can build confidence and reduce uncertainty. In addition, negative self-talk
plays a critical role. Thoughts like “I will mess up” or “I’m not good enough”
can amplify anxiety and make it difficult to focus on the performance itself.
Overcoming stage fright requires both mental and practical strategies.
First, recognizing and addressing negative thoughts is crucial. Replacing self-
criticism with positive affirmations, such as “I am prepared and capable,” can
help reduce anxiety. Second, preparation is key. Practicing regularly,
visualizing a successful performance, and becoming familiar with the
environment can make a person feel more in control. Finally, learning
relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, stretching, or mindfulness, can
help calm the body and mind before going on stage.
In conclusion, stage fright is a natural reaction, but it can be managed
with understanding and practice. By identifying its causes - fear of judgment,
lack of preparation, and negative self-talk - and applying effective strategies,
anyone can perform with confidence and turn anxiety into a source of motivation.
2.2. Psychological Techniques
Psychological techniques are essential in alleviating the mental pressure
associated with stage fright. One of the most effective methods is positive
visualization, in which speakers imagine themselves successfully delivering a
presentation and receiving a favorable response from the audience. This
technique helps replace negative expectations with constructive and
empowering thoughts. Another widely applied approach is breathing exercises.
By practicing slow and rhythmic breathing, presenters can regulate their heart
rate, reduce muscle tension, and counteract the physical symptoms of anxiety.
In addition, the practice of mindfulness has been shown to improve
concentration and emotional balance. Mindfulness encourages individuals to
remain focused on the present moment instead of worrying about potential
mistakes, thereby minimizing self-critical thoughts. Together, these techniques
promote psychological readiness and allow presenters to enter the stage with a
more composed and confident mindset.
2.3. Practical Strategies While psychological techniques primarily address internal states of mind, practical strategies provide tangible steps that gradually desensitize
individuals to public speaking. Thorough rehearsal is the foundation of effective public speaking, as it familiarizes presenters with their content, enhances fluency, and reduces uncertainty. Consistent practice also allows
speakers to anticipate transitions and potential difficulties, thereby boosting confidence. Another useful method is starting with small audiences before
moving to larger ones. By practicing in front of peers, classmates, or supportive
groups, presenters can develop resilience in a low-pressure environment and
then transfer that confidence to more formal settings. Finally, gradual exposure
to public speaking situations further strengthens communication skills.
Participating in class discussions, debates, or club activities provides repeated
opportunities for practice, which progressively desensitizes speakers to
performance-related stress. Through these strategies, presenters transform stage
fright from a debilitating fear into a manageable and motivating challenge.
3. Strategies to Become a Good Presenter 3.1. Preparation
One of the most important strategies for becoming a good presenter is
thorough preparation. Before stepping in front of an audience, a presenter
should dedicate time to researching the topic comprehensively. This not only
builds confidence but also ensures credibility, as the presenter can provide
accurate and relevant information while addressing possible questions.
In addition to researching, structuring the content clearly is essential. A well-organized presentation typically follows a logical flow - introduction,
main points, and conclusion - that helps the audience stay engaged and retain
information more effectively. Clear transitions between sections also prevent
confusion and create a smooth listening experience.
Time management plays a key role during both rehearsal and delivery.
Practicing within the allotted time-frame helps the presenter avoid rushing
through important details or exceeding the scheduled time, both of which could
reduce the effectiveness of the presentation. Rehearsals should be used to refine
pacing and identify areas that may need more or less emphasis.
3.2. Use of visual and technological aids
Another critical element is the effective use of visual and technological
aids. Slides should be designed to support, not overshadow, the spoken
message. This means keeping text concise, using images or charts for clarity,
and maintaining a clean layout. Visuals should reinforce key points rather than distract from them.
Finally, presenters can enhance engagement by employing multimedia
tools appropriately. Videos, audio clips, and animations can make a
presentation more dynamic and memorable if used sparingly and purposefully.
However, it is important to ensure that technology is reliable and that the
presenter is comfortable using it, as technical difficulties can undermine the overall delivery.
Together, these strategies: preparation, clear structure, effective
rehearsal, and the thoughtful use of visual and multimedia tools contribute to
stronger, more impact presentations.
3.3. Delivery techniques
The voice is like a musical instrument that we all play. Through our
voice, we can express emotions just like a melody does. When presenting,
adjusting your volume, pitch, and pace helps the audience follow more easily
and stay engaged. For example, when you want to emphasize an important
point, you can slow down and pause briefly before speaking. In addition, your
voice also serves as a tool to shape your personality and identity, because it
reflects the kind of energy and message you bring into your speech.
Gestures and facial expressions are also very important in a presentation.
Smile when you speak, because a smile not only conveys positive and happy
energy but also makes your tone sound warmer and more pleasant. Eye contact
is one of the most powerful forms of nonverbal communication. It helps you quickly connect with your audience and makes them feel that you truly
acknowledge their presence. Every presentation is a conversation. Therefore,
let your audience not only receive the message you deliver but also feel the
respect, appreciation, and trust you have for them.
3.4. Post-presentation improvement
Always seek feedback from your audience, because feedback provides
valuable insights that help you understand yourself and others better. It allows
you to recognize what worked well and what didn’t, so you can learn and
improve for your next presentation.
Afterward, take time to reflect on your performance. You can review a
video recording or write down your impressions right after speaking.
Presentation is not only about appearing confident on stage but also about
delivering a valuable message. And remember, practice is the key to improving
your performance every time you present.
4. Challenges and Solutions
- Stage anxiety → apply relaxation and preparation strategies
- Lack of audience interest → storytelling, humor, or real-life examples
- Technical difficulties → having a backup plan
In this section, I will discuss three common challenges that presenters
often face, along with practical solutions for each. The first and most
widespread issue that presenters might face is stage anxiety. This often shows
up as physical symptoms like a racing heartbeat, shaky hands, dry mouth, or
even a blank mind right before or during a presentation. Mentally, speakers
may feel self-conscious, afraid of being judged, or worried that they will forget
their content or make a mistake in front of others. These feelings can be
overwhelming and sometimes make people avoid public speaking altogether. One of the most effective ways to overcome this is by controlling your
breathing. When we’re nervous, our breathing tends to become short and fast,
which sends signals of danger to the brain and worsens the feeling of panic. To
reverse this, we can apply a simple but powerful method called 4-4-6 breathing,
which includes inhaling slowly for 4 seconds, holding the breath for 4 seconds,
and exhaling gently for 6 seconds. Repeating this two to three times can help
slow the heart rate, relax the muscles, and calm the mind. Controlled breathing
not only reduces physical tension but also brings mental clarity, making it
easier to focus on the message rather than the fear.
Another common challenge might happen during a presentation is the
lack of audience interest. When this happens, people might look bored, check
their phones, or avoid eye contact. Sometimes they sit quietly but are not really
listening. This makes it harder for us to get our message across. To combat this
issue, we can use a short story, something that is real, funny, or personal to
make the presentation more interesting and relatable. Stories naturally capture people’s attention
because they create emotional connection and curiosity.
Another trick is to ask a quick question at the beginning, like “Have you ever
been nervous before a speech?” This gets people involved. We can also use
simple examples from real life instead of just theory or big ideas. If possible,
add a little bit of light humor to make the room feel more relaxed.
The last problem that presenters may face is technical difficulties. This
includes things like the slideshow not opening, the projector not working, or the microphone suddenly failing during a presentation in a classroom or
meeting room. These unexpected problems can make us feel stuck or panicked,
especially when we rely too much on technology. To handle this situation, it’s
important to always have a backup plan. For example, you can save your
presentation in both PowerPoint and PDF formats, and store them in different
places, such as on Google Drive and on a USB drive. It is also helpful to prin
out a one-page summary or prepare a few notes with your main points, in case
you need to continue without slides. In tandem with this, we should also be
ready to explain the key ideas verbally or write them on the board, if needed.
Most audiences will understand that technical problems can happen, and they
will appreciate a presenter who stays calm, adjusts quickly, and continues the
talk smoothly, with or without technology. C - CONCLUSION
In conclusion, presentation skills play an essential role in shaping both
personal and professional success. They go far beyond the ability to speak
confidently; they reflect how effectively a person can organize ideas,
communicate clearly, and inspire an audience. In academic settings, strong
presentation skills enable students to express knowledge, defend arguments,
and engage listeners. In professional contexts, they help build credibility, foster teamwork, and create lasting impressions. Therefore, mastering the art of
presentation is not just an advantage but a vital competency in the modern world. Becoming a
good presenter requires a combination of qualities,
including confidence, clarity, preparation, and adaptability. Good presenters are not born overnight - they develop through practice, experience, and self-
awareness. One of the most common challenges that presenters face is stage
fright. However, this obstacle can be effectively managed through techniques
such as deep breathing, maintaining positive thinking, rehearsing thoroughly, and focusing on the message rather than on fear. Overcoming this
psychological barrier allows individuals to perform with authenticity and
enthusiasm, which are crucial to audience engagement.
Most importantly, the process of becoming a truly effective presenter is
ongoing. Continuous practice helps refine delivery and timing; adaptability
enables presenters to respond naturally to different audiences and unexpected
situations; and self-reflection encourages consistent improvement by recognizing both strengths and weaknesses. By combining these elements, individuals ca
n gradually transform their presentations from simple
information-sharing sessions into meaningful, inspirin g, and persuasive
experiences. Ultimately, the journey to becoming a good presenter is one of
growth - where each attempt is a step toward greater confidence, connection, and communication excellence.