How to Use Your Projector

Using a Presentation Assistant

Just when you think you are done . . . you have finished writing your presentation, you have created fabulous slides and handouts, you have analyzed room conditions and more . . . What could possibly be left to do? In some cases, it may be time to ask yourself if your presentation would be helped by a "presentation assistant". The more complicated a presentation, the more likely a presentation may prove helpful.

When we speak about an assistant, we speak of someone who can provide an extra set of hands, who knows how to juggle the balls you don't have time to . . . A presentation assistant can pass out handouts, advance slides, or assist with group exercises.

Tips for using a presentation assistant

• Select an assistant with whom you can work: someone you know and trust.
• Select an assistant who is familiar with your presentation or who can get that way. Set up a meeting and walk through your entire presentation, several times. Identify points at which the assistant should go to the next slide, turn up lights, or pass out appropriate handouts.
• Work out unobtrusive signals for communication.
• And most importantly, when you deliver the presentation, make sure to introduce your assistant.

from Presenters University