Bouncing Back from Presentation Mishaps: 3 Tips for Recovery
I once froze LIVE on TV. I was anchoring the 11pm newscast.
The teleprompter failed.
“Read your scripts, read your scripts!” yelled the director in my ear.
I stared at the camera. I looked down. I looked back up and I’m pretty sure I said, “uh, uh, uh”.
“Read your scripts, read your scripts!” she kept yelling in my ear.
I looked down and realised that as a rookie journalist, I had made a critical mistake. I didn’t stay on top of my printed scripts. So, I couldn’t figure out what script to read. The lights felt much hotter in that moment.
Finally, it was time for a commercial break.
I took a deep breath. The lights started to feel cooler.
Then I realised there was still another segment to get through.
I quickly got my composure, figured out my scripts and finished the newscast.
The next day, I had to do it all over again.
I had two choices: I could let this affect me or I could learn from this and move on.
I opted for the latter.
Have you ever stumbled in a presentation? Lost your train of thought? Forgotten your script in a speech? Had technical difficulties in a live presentation?
It can be disheartening and even derail your confidence.
“However, the true mark of a professional is how we handle these situations and recover gracefully.”
From my many years in live TV news and as a public speaker at various events, here are three tips to help you recover when you make a mistake during a speech or presentation:
Embrace Imperfection
Remember that everyone makes mistakes. Embracing your imperfections allows you to accept the mistake and move forward. Don't dwell on it or let it overshadow the rest of your presentation. Instead, take a deep breath, acknowledge the error, and focus on delivering the rest of your message with confidence and enthusiasm.
2. Shift the Focus
If and when a mistake occurs, shift the focus away from the error and back onto your message. One way to do this is by using humour. Acknowledge the mishap in a lighthearted manner. Last year, I was directed by the organizers of an event to stall because the guest of honour needed time to make it to the venue. As soon as I told the audience about the delay and stepped away from the podium, the motorcade arrived. I made a light joke, the audience laughed, and we continued with the program. Sometimes, a little humour or self-deprecating joke can help you connect with your audience and create a positive atmosphere.
3. Learn and Grow
Mistakes in presentations provide invaluable learning opportunities. After your presentation, take some time to reflect on what could have been done to make it smoother. Was it a technical glitch, a slip of the tongue, or perhaps a lack of preparation? Understanding the root cause will help you prevent similar mishaps in the future. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors who can offer constructive insights to help you improve.
Remember, it's how we handle these situations that truly defines us as professionals.
Embrace imperfection, shift the focus back to your message, and use these experiences as learning opportunities to sharpen your skills.
With years of experience in broadcasting and public speaking, we can help you conquer your fears of public speaking and empower you to own the room when you speak.