Why Your Presentation Matters

While reviewers have read your submission documents, the presentation allows you to:

• Show how you operate as a professional in real-time, rather than just through written words.

• Demonstrate your passion, confidence, and ability to explain your decisions clearly.

• Strengthen your case by reinforcing the key Attributes you’ve developed.

This part of the Review replicates the kind of presentation you’d give to clients, senior stakeholders, or the public when defending or explaining your work. Nervousness is normal, but controlling and channeling it is what matters most—and practice will help you do that.

How to Structure Your Presentation

You won’t be able to cover your entire Professional Review Report in such a short time, and you aren’t expected to. Instead:

• Focus on Key Projects: Choose one or two project examples that best demonstrate your technical and professional abilities.

• Highlight Challenges and Decisions: Select scenarios where you made critical decisions, solved problems, or had to justify your approach to others.

• Organize Your Flow: Start by telling the reviewers what you’ll cover, guide them through your chosen points, and finish with a clear conclusion.

Tip: Open with something like:
“You’ve read my report, so for the next 15 minutes, I’ll expand on the design decisions I made during the bridge construction project and how I managed risk and stakeholder concerns.”

Choosing and Using Visual Aids

In-Person Reviews:

• Use A4 or A3 flipcharts with diagrams and bullet points. A4 is often more practical, fitting easily on the table and in your bag.

• Avoid overly detailed technical drawings that require lengthy explanations—keep visuals simple and focused.

Online Reviews:

• Use Microsoft PowerPoint or similar software to display slides or design visuals.

• Ensure that your screen-sharing setup is seamless—practice sharing slides to avoid fumbling during the presentation.

• Tip: Videos can be effective online, as there is no background noise from a physical room.

General Visual Aid Tips:

• Use no more than one slide or visual per minute—for a 15-minute presentation, that’s 15 visuals max.

• Keep slides uncluttered, with minimal text and impactful diagrams.

Handling Supporting Documents

During the interview, you may be asked to refer to additional documents not included in your main submission. Be prepared:

• Organize your files so you can quickly find what you need.

• Don’t bring everything "just in case"—bring what is essential to reinforce your case.

The Power of Practice: Why It’s Essential

Practicing your presentation repeatedly will make you familiar with the material, control your nerves, and refine your timing. Even seasoned public speakers practice extensively—so should you.

How to Practice Effectively:

• Use a Mirror: Practice speaking while looking yourself in the eye. This helps you control your expressions and observe how you handle visual aids.

• Time Yourself: Ensure your presentation fits the time limit by speaking out loud, not just running through it in your head.

• Simulate the Environment: For online Reviews, practice using Microsoft Teams with someone in another location. For in-person Reviews, practice seated at a table.

• Get Feedback: Present to colleagues, friends, or family and ask for honest feedback. They can catch habits you may not notice, such as fidgeting or rushing.

Controlling Nerves

Nervousness can make you speed up, forget key points, or stumble over words. The best way to control nerves is to practice until your delivery feels natural.

Additional Tips for Calming Nerves:

• Deep Breathing: Take slow, deep breaths to calm your heartbeat before you begin.

• Positive Visualization: Picture yourself delivering a smooth, confident presentation.

• Body Language: Sit upright, avoid crossing your arms, and use natural hand gestures.

How We Can Help You Excel

Our tailored preparation sessions help you perfect every aspect of your presentation:

• Mock Presentation Practice: Simulate the Review environment with real-time feedback to improve your structure, timing, and delivery.

• Interview Coaching: Prepare for the follow-up questions that reviewers may ask, so you feel confident handling any scenario.

We provide the guidance and support you need to feel prepared and perform at your best.

Ready to master your presentation? Book your session today and approach your Professional Review with confidence!