Ask HN: First-time demo jitters

3 pointspeteforde2 comments

Okay, so I've given talks before — some of them were even pretty good:

http://vimeo.com/4031833

Tomorrow I have to give my first Great Demo. I'm working out the kinks, I'm "doing the last thing first" and generally trying to contain my instinct to start with a personal narrative.

That said, I'm still just an introvert trying to channel my passion into confidence.

What's your secret?

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Practice. Run through it until it's smooth. Great demos that look like they're off the cuff are actually the result of hours of rehearsal. Your passion will shine through, but only once you're so comfortable running through the demo that it has a chance.

Also, make sure you get a good sleep. There's nothing worse than wanting to be calm on stage while being jumpy from lack of sleep.

i always try to make my presentations interactive and have the audience involved. i've found it to really loosen up the vibe...and it also gets them more engaged!

as another suggestion, you might want to try thinking of everyone in their underwear. don't be too uptight/serious ;)

best of luck!

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