The Presentation That Went Wrong — And Why It’s Worth Talking About
Yesterday, I sat through a presentation that was a good reminder of the mistakes people make. We’ve all been there - hoping to be inspired or at least informed, but instead finding ourselves distracted, disengaged, and looking at the clock.
But as frustrating as those moments are, they also offer something incredibly valuable: perspective. It was a reminder of how quickly a presentation can go off track - and how easily the audience’s attention can slip away - when you forget the basics.
At The Presenter Studio, we always say the fundamentals are everything. No matter how great your content is, or how beautiful your slides look, without the three fundamentals - Passion, Eye Contact, and First Impressions - your presentation is going to fall flat.
Here’s what happened yesterday, and how it reaffirmed just why we focus on these three pillars in every presentation skills course we deliver.
1. Passion — Because People Feel More Than They Listen
From the first minute of the talk, it was clear something was missing. The speaker walked on stage and began reading directly from their phone - eyes down, voice monotone, no connection to the room. It felt like they were going through the motions, not sharing something they cared about.
That’s the problem with passion - or the lack of it. When a speaker isn’t engaged, it’s almost impossible for the audience to engage either. Passion isn’t just about volume or excitement - it’s about authenticity. It’s about showing your audience that this matters to you. That you believe in what you’re saying.
In our presentation skills course, we spend time helping people connect to their why. Why does this topic matter to you? What excites you about it? And more importantly - how do you communicate that excitement so your audience feels it too?
People want to be inspired, not just informed. If you’re passionate, they’ll be curious. If you’re not, they’ll tune out.
2. Eye Contact - The Easiest Way to Build Connection
Next came the second missed opportunity: eye contact.
Throughout the presentation, the speaker barely looked up. Eyes were glued to their screen. If they did glance at the audience, it was fleeting — just long enough to lose their place and return to their phone. And that, right there, is the moment you lose trust.
When you’re presenting, you’re not delivering a script - you’re having a conversation. And just like in any good conversation, eye contact is what builds trust, connection, and attention. Without it, your audience feels like you’re not really speaking to them - just speaking at them.
It’s one of the most common challenges we help people overcome in our presentation skills courses. Nervous presenters often avoid looking at the audience altogether - which is understandable. After all, it can be off-putting if people seem disinterested, or are checking their phones or taking notes.
But the truth is, eye contact is one of the fastest ways to pull people back in. Look at them - and they’ll look back. Engage them - and they’ll engage you.
We teach simple techniques for building natural, confident eye contact, so that your delivery feels more like a conversation than a performance.
3. First Impressions - Set the Tone or Risk Losing the Room
Finally, let’s talk about what might have been the biggest issue of all: the opening.
The presentation started late - almost 20 minutes behind schedule. No explanation, no sense of urgency. Just a slow trickle into a talk that lacked any kind of spark or direction. The energy was low. The pace was slow. The opening meandered without making a clear point.
And in those first five minutes, you could feel the audience switch off.
This is something we can’t stress enough: First impressions matter. A lot.
In our presentation skills course, we focus heavily on crafting strong openings - because we know how vital they are. Whether it’s a keynote speech, a boardroom pitch, or a virtual webinar, your opening is your first and best chance to hook your audience.
Start with a story. Ask a provocative question. Set the agenda with purpose and clarity. Show them why this is worth listening to.
When you don’t, you give people permission to disengage. They’ll check their phones. They’ll stop listening. And once you’ve lost them, it’s incredibly hard to win them back.
The Takeaway: Get the Basics Right, and the Rest Will Follow
It’s easy to overcomplicate public speaking. Fancy slides, big words, dramatic pauses - they all have their place. But without the fundamentals - Passion, Eye Contact, and First Impressions - none of it really works.
What I saw yesterday reminded me of why we do what we do at The Presenter Studio. Our presentation skills course is designed not just to teach you how to present, but how to truly connect with your audience, own the room, and feel confident doing it.
Whether you're a business leader, a creative professional, or someone who just wants to feel more confident speaking in front of others, the fundamentals are the same — and we can help you master them.
Want to Present Like a Pro?
If you’re ready to elevate your communication and presentation skills, join one of our presentation skills courses today. Whether it's online or in-person, private coaching or group training, we’ll help you find your voice, own your story, and deliver with impact.
Because when the basics are strong, everything changes.
For more information on our presentation skills courses visit: https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training
How to Choose the Right Presentation Skills Course for Your Needs
Finding the right presentation skills course can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available online and in-person. Whether you're looking to overcome your fear of public speaking or want to polish your delivery for professional settings, choosing the right course is key to your development.
First, consider your goals. Are you preparing for business presentations, keynote speeches, or client pitches? Look for a course that specifically mentions training for those situations. For instance, our presentation skills courses are tailored to real-world professional scenarios, which means you'll learn practical skills that you can apply immediately.
Another factor is the teaching style. A good course blends theory with plenty of practice. You should expect coaching on structure, storytelling, body language, and vocal delivery. The best courses provide personalised feedback, which is crucial for improvement.
Also, check who delivers the course. Are the trainers industry professionals? Our coaches come from a media background, offering insider insight into how to present with impact and authenticity.
Finally, reviews and testimonials can tell you a lot. Look for courses that are consistently praised for building confidence, clarity, and communication skills.
By identifying your goals and choosing a well-reviewed, professionally-led course with practical experience, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more confident speaker.
To find out more about how we can help you visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
There’s a misconception that great presenters just “wing it.” They step up, charm the crowd, speak from the heart, and the words just flow. But here’s a secret that every seasoned speaker knows: the real magic starts long before you get on stage — and it starts with the script.
A strong script is more than just a set of bullet points. It’s the architecture of your presentation. It shapes the journey your audience goes on, and it gives you the clarity and confidence to deliver your message with purpose.
At The Presenter Studio, we spend a lot of time teaching scriptwriting in our Presentation Skills Course. Because no matter how confident or charismatic you are, without well-structured content, your message will fall flat.
Here’s what makes a script great — and how you can start building one:
In our Presentation Skills Course, we teach people how to go from a blank page to a confident, compelling delivery. Whether you’re pitching, presenting, or leading, your script is your foundation.
When you invest time in crafting your content, you free yourself up to focus on what really matters — connecting with your audience and delivering with confidence.
For more information on our presentation skills courses visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training
We’ve all been there. You’re standing in front of an audience, halfway through your presentation, and suddenly — your mind goes blank. Maybe you trip over a word or lose your place in the slides. Your heart races, palms sweat, and that voice in your head screams, “You’ve messed it up.”
But here’s the truth we teach time and time again in our Presentation Skills Course: mistakes aren’t the enemy. In fact, they’re your best friend when it comes to building lasting confidence as a presenter.
Confidence doesn’t come from nailing every single word. It comes from knowing that even when things go wrong, you can handle it. That shift in mindset — from fear of failure to embracing the unexpected — is transformative.
When we work with clients, we often introduce small, intentional disruptions during practice sessions. Why? Because we want people to get comfortable with discomfort. When you experience a mistake and learn to recover from it, you remove its power. You realise the world doesn’t end. The audience doesn’t boo. More often than not, they root for you even more.
Here are some practical tips to embrace mistakes and build confidence:
Building confidence isn’t about avoiding mistakes; it’s about rewriting how you respond to them. That’s what we focus on in our Presentation Skills Course — giving you the tools to handle anything that comes your way, and actually enjoy it.
Because the truth is, the most confident presenters aren’t perfect — they’re present. And that’s what your audience will remember. For more information on our presentation skills courses visit https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training
5 Common Presentation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Avoid these common presentation mistakes and improve your public speaking skills with expert tips. Learn how to engage your audience and deliver impactful presentations.
Introduction
Even experienced speakers can fall into common pitfalls when presenting. Identifying and correcting these mistakes will help you become a more confident and engaging speaker.
The Top 5 Presentation Mistakes
A lack of preparation can lead to uncertainty and hesitation during a presentation. Researching your topic and practicing extensively will help you feel more confident. Overloading slides with text makes it difficult for the audience to follow along. Using bullet points, images, and minimal text creates a more engaging experience. Speaking in a monotone voice can cause the audience to lose interest. Varying your tone and pace will maintain engagement. Ignoring audience interaction results in a disengaged audience. Asking questions, encouraging participation, and making eye contact help keep listeners involved. Poor body language can make a speaker appear nervous. Standing confidently, using gestures naturally, and avoiding fidgeting can improve your presence.
Conclusion
Improving your presentation skills requires awareness and practice. Sign up for our presentation skills training at www.presenterstudio.com to elevate your speaking abilities. Contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find out more about how we work.
The Ultimate Guide to Presentation Skills Training
Strong presentation skills can set you apart in any professional setting. Whether you're delivering a pitch, leading a meeting, or speaking at an event, knowing how to communicate effectively is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about presentation skills training.
Why Presentation Skills Matter
Presentation skills enhance your professional credibility, increase audience engagement, and help you communicate your ideas effectively.
Key Elements of Effective Presentations
Preparation is essential. Research your topic, structure your content, and practice before delivering your presentation. Body language plays a crucial role in engagement. Maintaining eye contact, using open gestures, and standing confidently can make a significant impact. Voice control is another important aspect. Varying your tone, pace, and volume can help you keep your audience engaged. Audience engagement is key to a successful presentation. Incorporating storytelling, asking questions, and using visuals can make your message more compelling.
How to Improve Your Presentation Skills
Taking a presentation skills training course can provide valuable techniques and feedback. Practicing with a mentor or coach allows you to refine your delivery. Recording yourself and analysing your performance helps identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion
Investing in presentation skills training will boost your confidence and effectiveness. Ready to improve? Explore our expert training programs at www.presenterstudio.com
Presentation Skills Course – The Importance of a Good Script
The Power of a Well-Written Script
A great presentation isn’t just about confidence and delivery – it all starts with a strong script. At The Presenter Studio, we believe that a well-structured script is the foundation of a compelling and engaging presentation. Our Presentation Skills Course, led by BAFTA award-winning TV producers, helps you master the art of scripting to ensure your message is clear, impactful, and memorable.
Why a Good Script Matters
Clarity and Structure
A strong script ensures your presentation has a clear structure, guiding your audience smoothly from one point to the next. Without a well-thought-out flow, even the most confident speakers can lose their audience's attention.
Authenticity and Connection
A good script doesn’t mean sounding robotic or over-rehearsed. It means crafting a message that feels natural, authentic, and engaging. We teach you how to script in a way that enhances your personality and strengthens your connection with your audience.
Confidence and Impact
Knowing exactly what you’re going to say allows you to focus on delivery rather than worrying about what comes next. A well-prepared script helps you stay on track, avoid unnecessary filler words, and deliver your message with impact.
Engaging and Persuasive Communication
A powerful script makes your presentation more persuasive and engaging. Whether you’re presenting to colleagues, clients, or a large audience, we help you structure your words for maximum effect, ensuring your message resonates and inspires action.
Our Approach to Scripting
At The Presenter Studio, our BAFTA award-winning producers bring insider knowledge from the world of television and media to help you craft scripts that captivate and engage. We tailor our coaching to your unique needs, ensuring your presentation style is natural, dynamic, and effective.
Learn how to:
Structure your presentation for clarity and flow
Write in a way that enhances your personality and authenticity
Use storytelling techniques to engage your audience
Balance preparation with natural delivery
Ready to Elevate Your Presentation Skills?
Don’t underestimate the power of a great script. If you’re looking to enhance your presentation skills and learn from industry experts, our BAFTA award-winning training is the perfect opportunity to refine your scripting and delivery techniques.
Find out more and book your place today:
Presentation Skills Training – The Presenter Studio
https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training
Presentation Skills Course – Learn from BAFTA Award-Winning Producers
Stand Out with Expert Training from Industry Professionals
If you’re looking to elevate your presentation skills, why settle for ordinary training when you can learn from the best? At The Presenter Studio, we offer a Presentation Skills Course designed and led by BAFTA award-winning TV producers. With years of experience coaching top broadcasters, business professionals, and industry leaders, we bring a unique and game-changing approach to presentation training.
What Makes Us Unique?
Training from BAFTA Award-Winning Producers
Unlike conventional courses run by generic trainers, our expertise comes straight from the TV and media industry. We have worked with some of the world’s best presenters and can help you unlock the secret techniques that make them so engaging and confident.
Bespoke Coaching Tailored to You
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to presenting. That’s why our training is completely tailored to your needs, industry, and personality. Whether you need help with public speaking, online presentations, or boardroom pitches, we craft a bespoke training experience that ensures you stand out.
Learn from Real TV and Media Insiders
We don’t just teach; we’ve lived it. Our trainers have worked on major TV shows and with A-list talent, giving us unrivaled insights into what makes a presenter truly exceptional. This means you’ll gain skills used by the world’s top communicators.
Confidence-Boosting Techniques That Work
Struggling with nerves? We have tried-and-tested methods to help you speak with confidence, captivate your audience, and own the room. Our coaching transforms fear into excitement and energy, helping you engage and influence like a pro.
Real-World Application for Immediate Impact
Our course is designed for practical, real-world results. Whether you’re pitching to clients, presenting at a conference, or leading team meetings, we ensure you walk away with skills that you can implement immediately.
Work with the Best – Our Clients Speak for Themselves
We’ve worked with global brands, top executives, and leading professionals who trust us to refine their communication skills. From BBC and ITV presenters to CEOs and entrepreneurs, our training is a proven investment in success.
Ready to Elevate Your Presentation Skills?
Don’t settle for average – learn from the best in the business. If you’re serious about improving your presentation skills, our BAFTA award-winning training is the ultimate way to master the art of impactful communication.
Find out more and book your place today:
Presentation Skills Training – The Presenter Studio
https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training
Presentation Skills Training – What to Look For
Effective presentation skills are essential for business success, but not all training courses are created equal. If you’re looking for a course that truly enhances your communication abilities, here are key factors to consider.
Tailored to Your Needs A one-size-fits-all approach rarely delivers the best results. The best presentation skills training courses are designed around your specific needs, industry, and goals. Whether you’re preparing for a high-stakes pitch, a keynote speech, or internal business presentations, your training should be customized to ensure relevance and maximum impact.
Individual Coaching for Authenticity Your personality is your greatest asset when presenting. The right course will offer one-on-one coaching to help you develop a style that feels natural and authentic. Rather than forcing you into a rigid framework, a great training program will help you enhance your strengths, build confidence, and engage audiences in a way that reflects your unique personality.
Understanding Your Business and Communication Style Presentation skills aren’t just about speaking clearly—they’re about communicating effectively within the context of your business. A quality training provider will take the time to understand your industry, brand, and the key messages you need to convey. This ensures that your presentations align with your company’s values and objectives while making a lasting impression on your audience.
What to Expect from a High-Quality Course A great course will provide bespoke training tailored to your unique challenges and objectives. Practical application is key, incorporating hands-on exercises, real-world scenarios, and actionable feedback. Experienced coaches with expertise in public speaking, media, and business communication will guide you through techniques to build confidence, engage audiences, and deliver with impact. Ongoing support, including post-training resources or follow-up sessions, will ensure your continued improvement.
Conclusion Choosing the right presentation skills training is about finding a course that fits your personality, business, and goals. At The Presenter Studio, we specialize in tailor-made coaching that helps individuals and teams communicate with confidence and authenticity. If you’re ready to enhance your presentation skills, get in touch with us today.
Visit us at www.presenterstudio.com
Presentation Skills Training Course – 5 Star Reviews!
We love receiving feedback from our clients on our presentation skills courses.
Here’s some of the messages we received yesterday for a session we ran last week. Great work team!
Thank you so much for an amazing session. The feedback from the team was great, with everyone feeling really engaged.
Here is some of the feedback I received:
The trainer was very good. Def gets the KERB vibe. I thought he held the room really well and was great at giving everyone individual feedback. I really liked that it was not too corporate (no PowerPoint or slides to stare at) and lots of practice in groups and as individuals. There were loads from the session that were useful! The ‘best friend’ tip was a game changer for me. The duration and pace was perfect
Gareth was great, I think he had a really nice balance between encouragement and direction. Content was generally very good. I think the duration and pace was pretty much perfect. It didn’t feel repetitive and there was no down time, but it also felt complete and not rushed at any point.
I thought it was amazing! We really made use of the time, I took some great tips and also got to understand what needs to be done to remedy my nerves.
We will be looking at hosting another public speaking session later in the year, but we have no idea on dates yet.