Communicating More Effectively
229UÊIf possible, provide handouts containing copies of your slides and overheads 
so that audience members can listen to you instead of having to take notes. 
Audience members generally appreciate getting handouts.
UÊMake sure that your slides and overheads are attractive and that the type is 
large enough to be seen from the back of the room.
UÊAvoid the temptation to have too much information on your slides and 
overheads.
STEP 6: REHEARSING THE PRESENTATION
If at all possible, rehearse your presentation beforehand. There are several ways 
of rehearsing. Ideally, you can rehearse in front of an audience of friends, family, or 
coworkers, preferably in a location similar to where the actual talk will be held. Ask your 
rehearsal audience for feedback, and make changes to the presentation accordingly. If 
you cannot rehearse in front of a live audience, try rehearsing in front of a video camera 
or camcorder and watch the recording afterward. If that’s not possible, practice out loud 
in front of a mirror. As you become more experienced in giving presentations, practicing 
beforehand will become less important.
STEP 7: MANAGING YOUR ANXIETY
Preparing for a presentation should also include strategies for managing your anxiety. 
Before the presentation, make sure that you have used the cognitive strategies (chapter 
6) to challenge your anxious thoughts. In addition, use the exposure-based strategies 
(chapters 7 through 9) to confront your fears whenever possible. When you’re actu -
ally in the situation, make sure that your breathing is slow and regular. Overbreathing 
or holding your breath will increase your anxiety symptoms. Don’t ﬁght your fear. Just