Trend Day
The earlier announcement of my talk at Promax BDA Asia reminded me about the "Trend Day" folder in my "Blog This" folder which was getting dusty.
Earlier in May, I was invited to speak at the Trend Day 2008 conference in Hamburg to an audience of about 600 marketing type/executives from around the world.
The Promax conference is similar where folks are mainly media types.
We do a Hiro Nakamura and jump back to May in Hamburg - you can see more of this lovely city in the Hamburg article.
Taking some time out in the city before heading off to the venue in the afternoon.
Setting up my Mac at the podium. Who would have guessed that the Mac would die a few hours before the presentation...
Going through the sound and any other stuff that I needed. Was offered a choice between a pin mic, headset and handheld.
Decided to go with the headset - not sure if people still use mics for talks these days?
The lovely lady from Trend Buro that was looking after us during our stay in Hamburg.
The venue was Curio Haus which had a load of university buildings nearby. There was an Apple store around the corner but they couldn't save the Mac.
Back inside. The floors covered in lighting stuff.
A look around the hall. Was my first time speaking before such a large audience. Very nervous but excited at the opportunity at the same time.
The empty hall didn't seem to be able to fit 600 seats.
After lighting and media check, its networking dinner with the other speakers.
Some of the folks have been presenting for many years and yet still get butterflies in their stomach before speaking. One of them mentioned that he took a particular prescribed drug to calm down the nerves before speaking. He said that many performers took this drug. I'm personally not into taking medicine unless I'm ill so think I'll learn other methods of dealing what what they call Stage Fright.
An entry in Wikipedia for Stage Fright lists some causes and solutions - most which I had already learned but seeing it in sentences helps.
I've only spoken a few times in the past but would like to share some of my learning's so far.
1. Embrace the opportunity to speak and know that you will learn a lot from the experience - and each time you do it you will grow and develop. This should help you look forward to it rather than dread it. The more you dread, the worse you'll perform.
You should consider yourself fortunate and grateful to be given such opportunities to speak in front of hundreds or thousands of people - especially considering that one cant even pay money for the opportunity that you are getting.
Speakers are usually invited to present and is rare to have a conference full of presenters who are paying money to speak.
2. There is no such thing as a perfect presentation so don't aim to be perfect. Even the best speakers drop the ball on stage from time to time - we are human after all. Having said that, just aim for your best.
3. Know your subject. If you know what you are talking about then the more confident you will feel. I've declined many times requests for me to talk about subjects which I have the foggiest about. If you don't know what you are talking about then the chances of your audience giving you a blank look will be high ^^;
4. The worst that could happen is that you get shot or eaten by a giant snake and digested over 2000 years while speaking but apart from that, you have absolutely nothing to loose and all to gain.
5. One of the techniques that I've learned from other presenters is to try to get the audience involved in your presentation. Ask questions and ask for a raise of hands. This will put you "in touch" with the audience and bring them closer to you from being just a stranger in the audience.
6. You can also start off with an "ice breaker" - could be some sort of joke to get the audience to laugh. Hearing their laughter will calm you down more as their laughter is a sign that they have already accepted you - thus you need not worry about whether they think you stink like a pile of steaming baboon droppings.
Having said that, you should not have to worry about what the audience are thinking anyway - just concentrate on what you are there for - to speak about a subject that you are knowledgeable about.
7. You should take the opportunity given to you to also talk about yourself or your business too - most conferences who invite you should expect this.
You should set expectations with the organizers however and make it clear that you will talk about "otaku subculture, dannychoo.com and Mirai Inc" for example.
Remember, people are not going to guess unless you speak up. The audience is likely to be filled with folk from the industry who you will want to impress with your knowledge or services that you have to offer - this will lead to further business opportunities and advances in life.
7.Rehearse! When I first started off speaking out aloud to myself, I did feel like a right wally but if you feel like a wally in front of yourself, how are you going to handle speaking in front of hundreds?
Speaking out aloud to yourself is the first challenge - you dont have to do this on a packed train or bus or in front of a police station either.
8. Dont ever show a single slide with a ton of text on it - the audience will start to read it without listening to you. Use the features of your presentation software (Keynote or Powerpoint) to show bullet points one at a time.
9. Use as little text on slides as possible. The slides are there to support you - not to speak for you. The idea is that you know your subject so don't need to read your speech from anywhere.
10. If possible, use images instead of text to support what you are saying. Try not to have too many images on one slide or the audience will spend time processing each image on the slide and thus end up not listening to you.
11. Give your audience time to digest what you have just said. If you are speaking too fast the chances of the audience not being able to follow what you are saying will be high. Have a look at Steve Jobs Keynote below. Notice how he pauses to let the audience digest the major points.
Also notice how simple the slides are.
12. If you are talking about a heavy subject like something technical or political, you may want to occasionally include a photo or something completely off topic as a breaker to allow the audience to relax and take a break for a few seconds from the heavy subject. For example I was in a conference where the speaker was talking about Microbiology. He paused after a few slides to look at photos that he took about his home town in Canada. At each photo he would say "and this is blah where I do my shopping every moo."
13. Look at your audience - something which I should have done more of. After looking at the video footage, I realize I paid most of my attention to the left of the audience - I think it was because Hector and my wife was sitting over there. Looking at your audience put you "in touch" with them.
14. Get hold of photos or videos of your talk afterwards - the footage will help you improve yourself for future talks.
15. Never take the last slot of the day to talk. While I have not experienced it myself, I spoke to many people who have and say that by the end of the day many people in the audience are either dozing off or have gone home. Sitting in the dark in silence while trying to pay attention to a day full of speakers takes a toll on the viewer too.
While I cant give advice through experience, I would say that if you do end up with an end-of-day slot, have something short n sharp n loud n bright to waken them up ^^;
And thats all I have to say about that.
Back at the entrance - guest passes on the table with the bag o goodies.
At the media cockpit which controls all the video, lighting and cameras. The footage that they took was...not very good. They focused just on myself and you cant see the slides. I currently have the offical footage, video cam from the audience and slides and am looking for a contrubutor to help throw it all together as mentioned in this earlier news item.
Hall full of folks from all over.
Its lunch and I set up for my presentation - the Mac is loaned from one of the other presenters. For some reason most of the presenters who I know use macs. Figma Haruhi is my ice breaker ^^
Pop out into the networking area. Very nervous and cant really eat ^^;
Hook up with Hector and his comrades - at least I'm nearly as tall as the guy on the far right ^^;
The many sponsors of Trend Day.
Listening to the guy introducing me - just about to jump on stage.
"Hello! Thank you! Its fantastic to be here. My name is Danny Choo..." - it started something like that.
For all talks, the organizers had two photographers run up n down taking photos.
My mac displayed the current and next slide with a few foot notes. I also had a monitor in front of me so I can see the current and next slides too. I've used Power Point on Windows for years but find Keynote on the mac far far far superior iin terms of usability and looks. A great example of Keynote in the video below.
Pantsu in the background with his hands in the shape of a #%$ - what is he saying?
The attention focuses on Figma Haruhi.
Much laughter to be had from haruhi-chan below. Thank you Haruhi sama!
Proceeding to talk about the different types of otaku.
And its all over 45 mins later. 45 mins sounded like an eternity but felt like 5 mins on stage. When you get into the groove of things you will enjoy it thoroughly and before you know it, it will be all over.
After each talk I give, I find myself enjoying it more and more. I think its because of the challenge and I love new and challenging experiences - its one way to help us grow faster.
I find that purposely placing myself in situations which I don't usually get to experience helps me grow fast - it makes up for the time I feel that I lost as a teenager wondering what to do in life - I still need to write something up on that.
And when the day of talks is done, we are taken to the roof of some snazzy building for din dins.
Awaiting us is a load of food and a huge networking space.
The views of Hamburg are wonderful. Cant wait to go back to Germany again.
A nice change from Tokyo which is also known as "Heat City" due to the amount of heat stored in the concrete.
Sonnenuntergang über Hamburg.
Ich habe zu können, sprechen etwas Deutsch aus meiner Tage bei Amazon, aber alles vergessen.
Suddenly fell into my long lost broken German mode from my days at Amazon. Used to travel to the German offices often for business trips.
Networking through the evening.
Advice during a networking dinner - escape to a quiet corner and stuff yourself as early as possible or you wont get a chance to eat later on.
Bossanova music provided by the lady at the turn table.
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Casshern - Student
Wow Danny the pics are amazing the city looks pretty good. Happy Belated Birthday too. Wrote on your facebook wall too. Did you have a good talk on your trip?
Editor
http://cavalock.blogspot.com/
'fetish for speaking'? well, i guess u can indulge in yr fetish when u r here in singapore. <^;^> i have given short presentations in the office but never gotten on stage before dozens or hundreds of people before. Yah, i do get real nervous though.
"Please don't pee on me" for the caption?
Office Administrator
http://aquilla429.co.uk
I had to give talks before but only at college so it was nothing big scale.
You always look like you're having a blast on stage Danny.
former Emperor of Britannia
http://reflectiarx.wordpress.com/
3 words...
"I'm so Envious!"
i'm so envious to the people present during your talk X_X
Praying for a miracle wherein Danny would do something like this in the Philippines XD
Otaku, Animation Major
http://xlhaseolx.deviantart.com/
Looks like it was a fantastic presentation. I wish I could have been there.
Don't see many speeches on otaku subculture. Maybe I should try one for my next school project. ^_^
Nekophilia
Wow.. Danny looks so professional in stage ^^
Nice advices on stage fright too. I'm sure it'll com in handy in the future.
Hmm. Im quite interested at the "Types of Otaku" pic... I didn't know there were different types of otaku O.o Was this topic mentioned before and I somehow missed it?
Nekophilia
Sorry - somehow clicked the "reply to comment" butoon instead of the usual reply button.
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
There are 5 different types of otaku with different spending habits and tastes. Will talk about this in the future.
http://www.marvinryan.com
sound like that would make a very interesting post
aspiring to become a doujin and graphics artist cum lawyer
http://aki7.bottled-wish.info
yeah and then it'd be fun discovering which group we belong XD
Student and full-time otaku
Thankfully most talks I've given were all pretty ok. Now that I'm at uni, I find that I'm finally allowed (even expected) to talk about stuff I actually have a lot of knowlegde of (as opposed to at high school....).
The only thing I still don't like is giving a talk while in a suit: never know which button to (un)botton or where to leave my hands without wrinkling my jacket. Casual works so much better ^^
Student and full-time otaku
BTW I don't mind doing some editing for you...although I pretty much a windows-based guy so maybe that gives compatibility issues...
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
Thanks for the offer - will ping you if I need windows stuff done.
student
I work mainly on FCP, and will be taking some time to do editing after the 23rd of Nov. What kind of editing do you need done? I just graduated from a media diploma, so I'm still green but willing to give it a go. Hope to see you in singapore if you want to discuss it.
大学生
Only gave class presentations and briefings to groups of people. The first few times were nerve wrecking, really had stage fright and just couldn't get my thought organised. Think my voice even shivered a few times?
Agree with the more media less text thingy. For me I try to make my slides visual, entertaining and I hope to make people smile or laugh cause it just calms your nerve when you see people enjoying your presentation from stage.
Still have stage fright and loads to improve on. I count Steve Jobs as my inspiration and idol on presentations! He just has that AURA in him when he comes up to speak. It just makes you wanna buy that damn thing he's presenting! Haha.
Ain't networking equally frightening too???
Student
http://marianto.deviantart.com/
I have presented my project in front of a lecture theater before. Was nervous in the beginning but enjoying it as it goes on; even to the point of losing track of the time limit issued.
One thing that I really like to do while giving a talk is to add in humor and throw some related questions in between slides so as to further engage the audiences.
Graphic Designer
Wow, great article! I've never been good at doing talks. I've had to do some minor ones at work in the past, but nothing major.
Looking for work again
http://flickr.com/photos/darktek13/
Danny already covered my advice on speaking and giving presentations, so I will just reiterate.
Point 1
Know your subject and your speech - confidence is the absolute biggest factor is having a successful speech.
Point 2
Keep your slides simple - never never never read your slides word for word and have that be your whole speech.
Aspiring Trap
http://www.atalude.net/
Guess we'll be seeing only Kagamin in these future events then?
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
you bet!
IT Related / Self-claimed Otaku / SOS Brigade
http://www.youtube.com/ultimaweaponxx
ドイツすげえｗｗｗ
IT Related / Self-claimed Otaku / SOS Brigade
http://www.youtube.com/ultimaweaponxx
ってかお疲れ様でしたｗｗ
P.S：編集・削除の機能がなくて不便ですねorz
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
日本語めっさうまいね。
Dance Trooper: DCX-001 O.D.E. (Order of the Dancing Empire)
http://dannychoo.com.my
Ah ha! finally an article on this Tread Day way back in May ^^
I'd watched your presentation back in July, but the video with english dub was somehow not functioning, so I have to play the German video & sync with english MP3 of your presentaion to watch it ^^;
You did pretty well on all the points you mentioned, kudos to you ^_^
Initially I wanted to count how many "uh" you had said, but I think I lost count in the end ^^;
Can't wait to review your presentations at Animax Blogging Workshop & Promax BDA in Singapore y(^_^)y
Great words on public speaking, and as always, great photos!
Informatics(ComSci-ish) student/self-taught graphic designer and illustrator
http://picchar.cerestia.net
I've never given a talk that big before but I've had A LOT of presentations over the years for class. I get nervous every time and forget everything I have to say >.>
(by a lot I mean more than 20 in my life)
Pharmacist, Accountant to be!
http://www.rickytang.com.au
@Danny, ah is that why you haven't uploaded the video yet. I was wondering why the google video of the presentation was not available. I wanted to watch the talk to get presenting tips. I'll wait happily until someone throws it together.
browsing the nets
http://otakuposts.blogspot.com/
i hate presentations and speaking in front of a crowd >|<. just dont have the courage to look at lots of people staring back at me.
m
You get used to it pretty quickly if you become a college instructor. The most I've done at once is about 700 people (coaches). After all the practice it doesn't seem much different talking to 700 than it does talking to 30 people. TV appearances are another story...I get nervous for those.
Student
I have given a few talks before, just had one for a very small audience the other week and will have one for a little bigger audience (I hope) this week. But I haven't given a talk to such a big audience like you have.
You bring up very good points, but I'd like to add two:
1) It seems very hard to give a talk when many (most) people in the room know more (are more experienced) about the area of subject than you. But you have to remember two things:
first, even on a specific area no one can know everything, and you surely have something to teach to you audience; secondly, when you share an area of interest with the audience, then they want to listen to what you are saying and it's easier to hold their attention.
2) What ever you do, don't go over your time limit. If you see that you are short on time, then better skip some slides and talk about the important stuff, the things you want the audience to remember, and finish on time. Because the moment you go overtime, people will start diverting their attention to other things (thinking about the food break, the next presenter, playing with their mobile phone etc).
Developer, designer
http://twitter.com/jacintomarillo
Looks like your talk went well, Danny. Speaking engagements are definitely a great way of getting your name out and finding new business opportunities.
A few months ago I would have recommended Omnisio. It's a Web 2.0 service for collating video with slide shows. Unfortunately (for us), they were recently acquired by Google. So I guess there's not much choice beyond inter-cutting the slides with the video using Premiere or something. I don't have much experience with video editing, but there's only one way to learn and I'm willing. ^_^
Art/Media
http://sgallen.wordpress.com/
I can't speaking or do a presentation with a lot of people honing their eyes one me. I get all nervous and say the wrong thing all the time... I statter and stuff.
last 2 months ago. I tried to find the Trend day video. I looked at the official website, they only had Dub overs. The untouched recordings don't even work...
Art/Media
http://sgallen.wordpress.com/
"I can't do..." - "honing their eyes on me."
Need to start reviewing what I type next time. I lost my way of posting comments lately ^^;
website/graphic designer and karaoke amateur~
http://www.furudango.com
I'd be more nervous when they aren't looking, means they're not interested ^^;
Hikikomori in the making
http://supermariabros.deviantart.com/
Yay! From what I can decipher, I think this is what you said Danny...
Guess 1: http://www.flickr.com/photos/29932125@N03/3000040398/
Guess 2: http://www.flickr.com/photos/29932125@N03/3000040408/
Did I get any of them right?
"Hook up with Hector and his comrades - at least I'm nearly as tall as the guy on the far right ^^;"
Hmmm, height complex? Who cares, I'm short and I love it! LOL j/k...
"After looking at the video footage, I realize I paid most of my attention to the left of the audience - I think it was because Hector and my wife was sitting over there."
So which one did you pair more attention too, Hector or your wifey? LOL j/k again^^;...
Anyway, I've never done a talk but I have done presentations infront of my classmates... It's easier to talk with friends but with a large crowd of strangers... I think I would faint^^;
But when you complete the presentation or talk, you get this sense of accomplishment... So like Danny said,"Nothing to loose and all to gain".
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
lol ^^;
College Student
http://nategreene.wordpress.com/
I was forced to do many speeches presentation throughout my school life. I've kinda gotten used to it but never will be entirely comfortable with it in my opinion. Though I don't recommend telling a joke as an ice-breaker unless your a more naturally funny person. lol, ppl will look at you strange if you tell one of those chicken crossing the road jokes ;)
Engineering Student
http://www.flickr.com/photos/turkguy19/
Haven't given talks before, but have given many presentations before, and hated every one of them. Fortunately I am getting better, originally I was not even hardly able to talk, and now it isn't so bad. In a couple weeks I have to give an hour long presentation for my engineering project, and I am not looking forward to that >_<
Ordinary soul (student)
http://www.ekowc.net
At least in here they teach making of presenteation and speech in schools.
Danny Says:
http://ramoth.eternaldragons.net/images/caption2.jpg
http://ramoth.eternaldragons.net/images/caption3.jpg
University Student
DANNY GET THE VIDEO, I WANT TO HEAR WHAT YOU SAY n____n
IT-Admin
Good to hear that you had a nice time in Germany. Giving presentations makes me nervous every time, but the feeling after a successful presentation is great. Greetings from Germany...
Student, Bioresearch Assistant, WAVE VP Communications
http://gndynames.wordpress.com
Danny: "Check out my sweet ride"
Physical Therapist
http://www.flyingpussyfoot.com
Hehe you just made my Day with your few German Sentences^^
You are so far away and im so close to Hamburg yet i havent seen it but you did ^^;
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
cant wait zu gehen, um Deutschland wieder.
Physical Therapist
http://www.flyingpussyfoot.com
<(^_^)>
Destroyer of the Waps
http://blogpantsu.org/
I love public speaking. So much fun. ^^ The largest presentations that I've done was about 60-70 people. Last school year (July), our class got to pick our subject, and I picked the Ordo Malleus from Warhammer 40,000, heh. ^_^
Oh, and the PowerPoints at Microsoft are getting fairly better. The ones at MSDN (Microsoft Developer Network) usually don't even have text, just diagrams and models. They talk a lot, though, which I don't mind.
Student
http://irregularbloggers.wordpress.com/
Reading through those tips reminded me of the General Communications (Speech) Class I took over the summer. You could become a Speech teacher Danny! lol. I'm very comfortable with giving speeches (maybe not to 600 people but maybe 200) as I have had to speak to lots of people and make small talk to customers (family's in the restaurant business).
A tip for people wanting to make eye contact during speeches; if you are very nervous about making eye contact with the audience try looking right above their heads and such and slowly work on making a solid visual contact with the audience. I think it's too much when some teachers tell you that you HAVE to look at people immediately when you haven't even gotten presentation right.
Coder, GFX Designer
http://blog.exolimpo.com
Wow, dude you have traveled everywhere, lucky you... I would love to go there! It looks pretty amazing!
Grats on your work.
Hope you can visit mexico some time soon, that would be pretty cool, I would enjoy to see you here har har
student
http://www.gunpla-inochi.com
Great presentation advices, Danny. I will definitely refer back to this page when I have speeches coming up in class ^_^. Hamburg looks oh so exotic of a city to visit... must add that on my to-go list..
Internet Media
http://twitter.com/kwech
You lead quite a life, Danny. *jealous* haha
The Sword of Magus
http://daichouginga.blogspot.com/
Wow, that trend day is really a nice opportunity for you ^^. I can't remember my last speech that I did but one speech that I could remember is my 2nd year speech, the time that I'm not really good in english(well, me still not good in english but at least I improved over these past years). IMO it's ok for me to speak in front of the crowd as long as the topic I'm talking about also tickles my interest.
And yeah about the caption: "Those nice round yummy eyes... its softness and supple texture are unbelieveble!" ^^;;;;
part time illustrationist, doll clothing seamstress
http://puppy52art.com/
huhuhu thanks Danny for sharing with us your experiences! I had given a couple talks before (not counting those dreaded presentations in school) It was.... weird LOL I think at one of them it was totally unforeseen (Just got a call from my previous secondary school) and I don't think some of the students made to attend it was too impressed :P (It was to talk about my work/publications from before) Was made to also give a short part in a group presentation about drawing comics? ^^; I recalled over head projector slides ^^; and scribbled notes ^^;
Designer / Visual Editor
http://www.youtube.com/user/ImperialPimp
Good job Danny, shame about the Mac - its already happened to me twice !!
Beware! Always back up your Mac, as they have just as many crash errors as PC's....
Evil Fanfic Writer
http://acesan.wordpress.com/
Caption: "About here are where the real eyes are."
As for presentations, it's part of my job that I do them. Lost count of how many, from small presentations to large ones ^_^;;. Also given presentations to large executive coporate boards.
I don't really get nervous anymore - it's actually more nerve wracking when training people because you have to really know your subject matter when training. And before presenting, I learned my public speaking by training.
My style when presenting and use a lot of humour, but not too much. And yes, involving teh audeience is important. And yes, too much text on powerpoints is a no, just like you said ^_^. Not only are they hard to read, but they get BORING. The last thing you want to do is bore your audience.
流浪人
Another good article. ^_^
As for speaking, I've had to give a number of presentations and talks, as well as teaching in front of classes. I get stage fright, but one of the ways I cope with it is to keep this in mind: For the next several minutes, I'm in charge. I'm the boss. It doesn't matter who they are, they have to listen to me. It gets to be fun when I think of it this way, especially when I'm briefing generals and politicians.
I've also been the last speaker for the day. My best advice is what you suggested above--grab the audiences' attention from the get go. Whether it's flashy, loud, or animated, do something to grab their attention.
For example, I had to give a talk on my job as a training instructor for military officers. I was the last speaker after seven hours worth of presentations. People were falling asleep before I even got to the stage. So, I started my presentation off quietly, describing a trainee's first morning before wake up. And then, I gave the audience a real instructor's wake-up call, in all its loud, shouting, banging glory. Several audience members jumped to attention, and one fell over in his seat. There was a lot of laughing, and once that died down, I had their rapt attention for the next 15 minutes. In contrast, if I had gone with a normal presentation opening, most of them would've been completely asleep by the end.
Anyway, that's my lengthy advice and example... ^^;
NEET (no, student, AND employed min. wage)
http://otterhangar.blogspot.com/
talks as in class presentations? yes... several... recently, my trend has been to add anime pics (usually from Lucky Star) and incorporate it into my topic. Pretty funny....
Danny's Speech bubble: Come with me! And together, we shall rule this Earth!
Electrician
is there somewhere a better video, in which you can also see the pictures?
Dirty Gentleman
http://cantstanzya.wordpress.com/
Last time I had to give a speech was at my sister's wedding in late August in front of 108 reception guest. It went smashingly well even tho I found myself improving a couple a times to sustain peoples laughter. Later, I got plenty of comments of how it was the best speech of the night even tho it was the shortest. I'm a magician.
Caption: "I like my oppai THIS big"
JR. College Student
http://npc.talkingincircles.net/
Can't wait to see the presentation on video when it's finished. I love presentations like these, kind of like the "TED" lectures.
...
More pics of the Bossanova DJ lady, if she's cute, plzkthx. :P
Seriously though, Bossanova? I'd be impressed if she actually mixed that. Looks like she has a collection of it on vinyl too, no timecoded vinyl in sight! Very classy shot... in fact, if no pics of the lady, may I have a hi-res photo of that to set as my wallpaper? :D
Student
Haven't really given speeches except some presentations at school but dont really count those. I always hated those, most likely because the subject was so boring and stupid I really didn't feel up to it.
But think at least for me (if I were to give a presentation or something) it would matter the most that I know the subject by heart and know I know more of it than the audience. For example during my time in army we would have to instruct people to use or do various stuff and it was really easy to explain for example what a howitzer is, how it works and what it does. Of course the poor guys at first didnt know a thing and boys love big guns so that was like a walk in the park (+ if the "audience" wasnt listening I could make them run a few laps and try again...).
But yeah, would love to practice more (and I think I will get practice), would be great to be able to keep great speeches. First of all it benefits the audience more and gives a better image also :)
PhD Student
I think the Steve Jobs speech is the most annoying thing I saw all day. Zero content brought to you by a guy that simply repeats " I am the greatest wiener of all time " couple of hundred times... makes me regurgitate my brekkies...
otaku
http://tsuki-board.net/louki
Caption for the pic, the speaker say that:
"Oppai bazooka spotted on the second seat from the left of the first line. Can i squeeze them please ?
What ?
You dare say no ?!
I'm danny choo and i have the right to squeeze them all !"
[The security's coming on the stage...]
Just listened to your talk, it was good, very informative. Unfortunately the video seems to be offline.
Student
ditto
http://quentinlau.blogspot.com
There are two Point 7s on your list of advices :P
But given what you have adviced, it is clear that you are quite experienced on giving out presentations, and most points are similar to what a supervisor had told me in a summer job quite a while ago.
I do get nervous when I have to face so many faces, so I ended up speaking very loudly, which somehow works to counteract the anxiety. But man you're lucky that you can decide to give speeches on topics you don't excel at. Most I was assigned were things that were not to my interests or my forte at all -_-
http://quentinlau.blogspot.com
Ah what am I talking about...
*Decide NOT to give speeches on topics you don't excel at. -_-
Student
http://andreijournal.blogspot.com
Yeah I agree the Quentin. LOL sorry
But, giving your pace of speech feels a lot better since, one fact is that you know deep in your heart what you are talking about. In the process of doing it, you feel very light since you knew it. Hmm how nice. Great job Danny. XD
Policy & Research Officer
http://www.alafista.com/
You've covered some very nice points on making good presentations. Its almost the same as those that I learn when I attended a course on "Making Impactful Presentations" LOL
Well I'm gonna be presenting a paper to my minstry's permanent secretary so I'm still quite nervous about that =P
Student
http://yellowguy89.blogspot.com/
the advice of using the least text possible and very few images per slide is a good tip, I've never thought of it much but I could imagine what the audience would feel like, so yes, thank you for that. It'll be a good reference for the future. Lovely pictures, especially the ones outlooking Hamburg at Dusk
Kendo Kid / 大学生
http://makocat.deviantart.com
I had a few experiences of thinking out loud "This guy is awesome" while reading.
Once I said that and my roommate silently looked over my shoulder and I had just scrolled past a picture with pantsu in it. He quickly made a "Wait! What?" expression. lol
As for speaking, I dreaded it up until High School where I tried on what I called "Zen and the Art of Slacking". Not to intend that I didn't try; the practice covers a theme that you let what happens happen and you should not live with regret. Live positively, basically.
こうこうせい
http://stickymochi.blogspot.com
Thanks very much for your tips on giving presentations. I'll be sure to keep those in mind the next time I give one.
I FEEL ASLEEP
http://www.fakku.net/
The last time I spoke in front of a group of strangers was at secondary school, I was about 15 or 16. It was just reading out loud in front of my history class. I was so scared I was visibly shaking and my voice was trembling. I could hear people saying "Haha, oh god, look - he's actually shaking!" which just made it worse. It's not like that was a one-off - it's always like that. That's why I've avoided any such thing for the past 9 years or so.
Moe Hunter
http://moehunter.wordpress.com/
Horror story;
I was doing a speech with some friends in London which required a model, I messed up AND forgot most of my words (My mind just wasn't on the content). Then walking over to where I was supposed to be knocked over and broke the model we were using for presentation. ^__^ Am I glad I got out of that room at the end -__-;
All I can say though, it's made me stronger, and every week I stand proud infront of audiences of many playing music without hinderance any more. Although it wasn't just that experience that helped. There were many more hardships until I got to that point. But I'm out the other end, and I'm still alive and kicking.
Dropping computers, starting all over again at Journalism
http://xspblog.com
Here are my versions:
Moeeeh: http://www.flickr.com/photos/28529816@N07/3000463411/
I've got BALLS OF STEEL: http://www.flickr.com/photos/28529816@N07/3001301710/
For those who still don't know about Balls of STEEL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IE3KdcTgrno
Student
http://iish.wordpress.com/
i gave talk to a few school events.
But no matter how prepared i am, i`m still quite nervous.
電子工学者
Something I thought I would add to the list of tips:
Don't take the talk before lunch (if you have a choice). Similar to the end of the day talk, people will not be paying that much attention.
I had to give my share of talks throughout school/university and I completely agree with not having too much text on the slide. Rely more on yourself rather than your slides to convey your point...I think of the slides just as backup to emphasize my points. Also, definitely practice...no one wants to hear you say "um" 3 times every sentence.
Caption: "When holding the power orb like so, a marvelous transformation occurs.
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
lol at caption ^^
Ninja / Engineer / Sensei / 魔法少女 (What!?! I can't be, I'm a guy...)
You definitely looked like you were enjoying your time up on stage. And I have to agree that time flies by when you are up there. I had to teach 1-hour classes before and before I realized it, the class was over. Sometimes, I had to speed up becuase I was actually being slow. =P
Student, Otaku, She-Geek(Sheek lol)
http://meimi132.wordpress.com/
OMG.... that still sounds amazing.... so very cool.... Wish I had the guts to do a talk like that. I'm guessing through Uni I'll develop the presentation skills n stuff..... I hate doing presentations even so....
Student
http://konadora.wordpress.com
That... is such an awesome car XD
Your local Otaku Cashier.
Biggest talk I ever gave was in front of a class at school, and those never tend to be that big.
???Confused???
You looked good on stage Danny...I doubt you'll have any problems with the up coming event since you have experience under your belt...
Student/Part-timer
Oh Danny, you're just so awesome. Man, I wish I were there to see you on stage. :|
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
http://funkyblueame.tumblr.com/
Not a lot of time since I'm trying to finish a paper for tomorrow.
Long ago I can always remember feeling nervous about giving presentations. I worried like many of us do about what happens if I forget something and make a mistake. Now, I don't worry about this at all because of one incident in my early days of college.
In one of my classes we were given a set of criterial and points to cover in a group presentation. Of course, we prepared our presentation and rehearsed alone and as a group.
On the day of the presentation we made many mistakes and completely deviated from our planned presentation. Neither our audience or the professor could tell it wasn't what we had planned when we finished. We simply picked up the pieces as we progressed and made the best of the situation. Fun part is the professor thought it was one of the best in the class.
Since that day, I have never feared a presentation going wrong.
I have no fear, not because we kept our cool and put the pieces together the best we could. It is because we did just those things while giving the presentation in Japanese. Overcoming all that at once, made me believe I can overcome any presentation problems.
Pokemon master
http://thecococafe.wordpress.com/
I'll confess that I hate giving speeches; they make me so jittery. But I'm working on improving myself.
Also, I'd love to know more about the different Otaku types! ^^
Student
http://anime.scripts.mit.edu/miteiru/
Dude i talk allllll the time... >.> it's not just that i'm talkative at school but i love to debate! There's a tournament almost every weekend!
Student Otaku (ITM Student) and ACG NA Staff
http://koiaichaku.com/
When you head to Singapore...be sure to get some behind the scene pics!!!
Would love to see something like that!!!
Trend Day, I watched that video...sooo amazing!!!
http://www.marvinryan.com
my caption attempts:
http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/7236/29987913818d43716d14plt5.jpg
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/6171/29987913818d43716d14obr3.jpg
the city looks amazing.
and thank you for those words of wisdom on public speaking and presentations.
Dirty Gentleman
http://cantstanzya.wordpress.com/
Yuk yuk yuk... ^^
http://www.marvinryan.com
glad you like it FatB. ^^
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
LOL
http://www.marvinryan.com
glad you like it Danny. ^^
Graphic Design student | Receptionist | Otaku
http://sukidesho.blogspot.com/
A very informative article, Danny, Thank you very much m(_ _)m
I still get nervous when I do public speaking, the last time I spoke at a small museum which displayed some of my artworks. I never realised that I would be called up and as a result, spoke better than I would if I had time to prepare. I prefer unprepared talks as I have less time to stress over them XD
university film student | ecchikid | the Archivist
http://www.vimeo.com/longhim
Networking event stories are always interesting. :) I've only used Keynote once or twice - ever since my senior year in high school there's been little need for me to do presentations with slides. Always hated Powerpoint though - the interface bugged me, and all the effects were cheesy.
I'm surprised that the official footage was bad - seems like an easy thing for them to overcome if they tried. The only way it would make sense is if the majority of people didn't use slides much.
Anyway, as I replied in the news article, I'd be up for some video editing if you need me. ^^
vendor
http://www.friendster.com
What the hell!! hail haruhi.. he he joke. Danny spoke to many audience about otakus. I may be shy to speech at the center. he he
website/graphic designer and karaoke amateur~
http://www.furudango.com
Great pictures and info Danny~ Will hold out for the video on the Trend Day website, going to save it when it gets to midnight [off-peak] over here :3
What's networking like? I always get nervous when at seminars as I never feel impressive enough since I don't wear make-up and I'm told I look younger than I am ^^;; I should look it up, I think it's important for any one aspiring to make something of themselves to know. Any tips? =o
Video Reviewer of Anime Figures, Mecha and Merch (youtube.com/user/Actar576295)
http://actar.wordpress.com
Boy, have I given so many talks before... For companies, for students and schools and even charity organisations.
You could say that this is my best asset. This December, I'll be taking my final Oral Communications exam. :)
Multimedia Technology Student
http://thehappyninjadrawn.wordpress.com
Thanks for the tips on public speaking Danny, that'll help me somewhere down the line. I mean I've done a bit of public speaking, but only in front of a small class, nothing the size of the audiences that you have to speak in front of ^^. You took some nice pictures while you were over there, I should go visit Germany again, because when I went I was pretty young and didnt' appreciate travelling so much ^^. Looks like you had a lot of fun whilst your were there.
Hotel - Night Audit
You had to present in German??? I couldn't do it! I have presented in class at university but that's not very formal. I was nervous and my voice shook but I was well prepared and kept talking. I don't think that my voice ever stopped shaking. On the other hand, I once sang in fromt of 10000 people and wasn't the least bit scared. I think the bright lights and huge amount of people makes it feel less real.
Mechanical Engineering student
http://sabekujikaneda.multiply.com/
You don't know how much you helped me just now Mr Danny! I have a speech next week and your tips are a great help. Thanks! I feel a bit relax now XD
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
The force will be with you. It will work out just fine. It always does.
IT Crowd
Caption: "And this was the size it had grown to after five minutes of kneading!!" (I'm talking about bread of course).
Thanks again for a great inspirational article. Keynote looks interesting too. I'm gonna have to take the plunge into Mac from Windows one day.
Daigakusei [Consular and Diplomatic Affairs]
http://dixinfernal.wordpress.com
wow! sounds like a mighty fine presentation, danny~
hope too see a vid of one of your talks soon^^
Costume Talent, Stormtrooper, Student, Writer
http://akxd.wordpress.com/
Your timing could not have been more perfect Danny. I have an oral presentation to do tomorrow for my Project Work assignment in school. Thanks.
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
You will do great. Just give it your best shot and focus on enjoying it.
Student
http://kankeishorui.wordpress.com
I've been nervous on having a talk and such so I never done a good talk 'cause of that, but what amazes me the most Danny is giving a talk with using other foreign languages and became a linguist.
Network Engineer
http://www.fanimejapan.com/news
Great article, I've done some public speaking before. I've found it that if you find it nerve racking to look at the audience or the group of people in whole, it's easy to look at certain people around the room thus giving the audience the illusion that you're communicating with everyone in the room. Just something that always helped me out ^^. BTW I've always been a PC type of guy, lately I've been leaning towards Mac tho I think that video of Keynote just put the nail in the coffin. ^^;
Free Thinker
Thank you for sharing your day with us.
System Design Engineering (UWaterloo)
http://robostrike.wordpress.com
If you want to hear Danny, two clips, one:
http://www.trendbuero.de/index.php?f_categoryId=484&f_page=9
and two is just below in the links. You can't hear it properly cuz the people do dub overs in German T_T, but it's still audible to hear Danny's voice
@Danny: you have a nice and persuasive voice .^_^.
Pokemon master
http://thecococafe.wordpress.com/
The 2nd video won't load for me, but I got the mp3 and it's without the German dub. :]
NEET part-time - Technical Support Officer - Network security engineer
http://burugureibi.blogspot.com/
I just wanna ask, what should you do your hands?
I've watched some speakers use their hands to emphasise their point, but i don't really understand the technique right.
What should you do if you don't have a lecturn to stand behind?
What i guess I'm really asking is that, How should you display your body language on stage?
I tend to use the lecturn as something to hide behindsuck at giving talks.
I also have overbite, which means that i have trouble enunciating words - which in turn makes me nervous.
System Design Engineering (UWaterloo)
http://robostrike.wordpress.com
Well, the idea of moving hands is to do something to stop your hand from fudgetting (moving uncontrollably) by moving it in a direction that aims towards your attention. This includes pointing towards a screen with information or when providing examples, using your hands to distinct the points.
As for overbiting, try to pronounce the words beforehand.
Hope it helps
Student
Hi, first comment!
Have been lurking for about 2 years now, and used this as an excuse to finally sign up here ^^;
I've ripped the google video and packed it together with the english audio track that has been available on the trendbuero homepage (included the german voice-over as separate track for completeness). This article is already a few days old but maybe someone finds it usefull anyway. At least until Danny and crew put together the "definite" version.
Enjoy:
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=P85AZPL2
Electrician
is it possible, to get the presentation for watching the pictures?
Unemployed and searching
http://www.allgames.com/
Awesome time warp Danny! Who knew such a mainstream delivery on otakus' could be so professional?
And I can answer, yes I've given talks before. During my time attending a trade school, I took up a position as PR representing the program. Thing is, I spun it all on its ear, and made it fun to actually "speak up", where some were afraid. If I ever take a shot at delivering a keynote amongst people, I would so love to do it again. ^_^
pixels & photography
http://www.studiosushi.com
very interesting post danny, thx for sharing your fears, feelings and tips with us. *bookmarked*
Software Developer
http://www.reallycuteasians.net
Wow those photos look amazing! It must be amazing to speak in front of 600 people
Student and Writer
Inspirational!
Hmm. One of the things I've learned about presenting... Is that you have to have experienced bombing on stage at least once. For some reason, it's like a christening. Smooth sailing awaits.
http://www.alternatesam.com
true...for me, my first experience was terrible. after that, its usually much better and at tim es even comfortable. i just have to remind myself it couldnt get worse than that experience and instantly i get slightly more relaxed
http://www.alternatesam.com
my most 'memorable' speech/talk was also my first one...gave it when i was like 10(?) years old for some school event. didn't volunteer for it and it was something like merit based, but i ended up trying to avoid it to no avail. screwed it up and had it hidden somewhere deep and dark in my subconscious until i read this entry. From what i can (horrifyingly) recall, it went quite bad as i had terrible stage fright on that day and basically rushed through everything.
Student
http://shockerz.wordpress.com/
I have my fair share also in presenting talks/speeches because I'm require to make talks as a student to gain marks for my academic. Just last 2 months ago 3 of my buddies and I went on stage to give a overall speeches on our business for the whole 6 months in the Exxonmobile young entrepreneur program.
We were watch by hundreds. We did pretty good if I may see so myself. What I do is control my breathing to slow my nerves down so I won't be so nervous. I really want to know otaku got what kind of groups.
CEO MIrai Inc
http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/
Comment QA.
Chemical Engineering Student
http://flickr.com/photos/daboryuu
Nice slides Danny! I like the reflections of the pics, it's got a cover-flow-from-iTunes style, hehe. Also love the font you use, which one is it?
I have to give a talk about a polymer in two weeks' time, so I'll have your tips in mind. I'll let you know how it went ;D
mountain designer,tax evader
woow nice story...i dont wanna sound like a bootlicker but u really are an inspiring person u know that?^^
hope ure visiting berlin someday! wanna check your presentations :D
greetings from germany