The first step to overcoming bad delivery habits is to be aware of them. If possible, ask a trusted colleague or a friend to observe you and give you honest feedback. Here are some common errors:

• Annoying movements and gestures. These focus the audience’s attention on what you are doing rather than what you are saying
• Filler words such as ‘um’ and ‘aah’. These can be a hard habit to break, particularly if you’re nervous, but when overused they are distracting and can make you seem unprepared
• Loud clothing. Clothes can express individuality, but try to make sure your clothes are appropriate
• Simple errors in slides. Nothing looks less professional than misspelled words. This signifies sloppiness and can cost you your credibility. Take time to look over your slides and handouts at least twice
• Death by Powerpoint. Slides can be a great visual aid, but they should remain just that, an aid. Transitions and animations are fun to play about with, but rather than enhancing your presentation, they will detract from it
• Turning your back. Don’t talk to the screen. Focus on your audience and if you need to reference a visual then turn a maximum of 45 degrees towards it.