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Using
Overhead Transparencies
(c) 1997 LJL Seminars
While the current trend in the training industry is
heading toward the use of the LCD Projector technology,
the overhead projector is still the most popular
presentation device used today. Most facilities have an
overhead projector in every training room or conference
room. Although it is the most widely used, it is also
the biggest abused. Some presenters continue to misuse
the overhead projector even though they have used them
for years.
I have provided below some basic guidelines and tips
when using an overhead projector. Although some of these
tips seem like common sense, many presentations fail
because these basic tips are not consistently applied.
Here are some tips and rules to be aware of:
1. Practice giving your presentation using your visual
aids to check out how well they project. This is a good
time to also check for spelling errors. Have a friend
sit and watch your presentation and make notes on any
problems or needed improvements with your visual aids.
Practice using your overhead transparencies so you will
be comfortable with handling them correctly.
2. Stand off to one side of the overhead projector while
you face the audience - Too many people stand between
the overhead projector and the screen causing a shadow
of the presenters body. Standing to one side will allow
the audience to see you as the presenter and will
prevent you from blocking their view of your visual aid.
3. Do not face the "projected" image on the screen -
Face your audience and not the screen. Many presenters
face the screen and end up talking to the screen.
4. Cover the transparency when you are done using
it-with an opaque piece of cardboard (I usally mount a
solid sheet of paper on one of my transparency frames).
You may also turn off the projector completely, but
beware, this can cause the projector bulb to burn out
sooner.
5. Bring a spare bulb!-Nothihg is more unsettling than
to have your overhead projector bulb go out during your
presentation. Bring spare bulbs and a glove to change
the bulb. The old bulb will be HOT! Make sure you know
how to change the bulb.
6. Place the overhead to your RIGHT if you are right
handed and to your LEFT of you are left handed-This will
make it easier for you to face your audience and write
if you need to. In either case, you want to stand in the
center of the speaking area.
7. Place your overhead projector on a table low enough
so it does not block you or the screen. Have a small
table next to the overhead so you can stack your
overheads before and after you use them.
8. Place your screen off on a diagonal instead of
directly behind you-this will assure that you do not
block the view for your audience. Also, have the top of
the screen tilted forward towards the overhead to
prevent the "keystone" effect (This is where the top of
the image is larger than the bottom).
9. Tape the power chord to the floor-to protect you or
someone else from tripping. As the presenter, tripping
over the chord and falling, although humorous, is one
gesture you would prefer to avoid.
10. Store your overhead transparencies in a sturdy box
or container so they will stay clean and protected for
the next time you need them. Label the box and include a
"clean" copy of your handouts in the box. This will make
it easier for you the next time you give this award
winning presentation again.
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- Lenny Laskowski
- Lenny Laskowski is an international professional speaker and the author
of the book, No Sweat Presentations - The Painless Way to Successful Speaking and several
other publications. Lenny is also available for hire to speak to your organization,
college or association. Lenny also provides in-house seminars and workshops. Why not
contact Lenny today for your next function or event. Lenny can be found at his Web site, http://www.ljlseminars.com/ or can be contacted by
email at the following address: Sales@LJLSeminars.com.
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