Consider the advantages of making a helpful presentation to a group. This is a super way to get the word out about you, your business and expertise.

Chambers of Commerce, many companies and all kinds of associations are always searching for interesting speakers. Once you feel comfortable with your presentation skills, offer to give a luncheon, dinner or brown-bag lunch speech about some aspect of what you do and know to their group. You will probably perform this service for free or a meal (some speakers call this the "rubber chicken" circuit), but it can pay off big time with contacts and prospective clients.

Use the presentation skills of top-notch speakers. Professional speakers have a passion for their topics. Let the group you are presenting to know how passionate you are about what you do. If you aren't passionate about it, you will find it impossible to sell to others. Take time to look everyone in the eye (for at least three seconds is the recommended amount of time). Most people equate this with credibility, integrity and self confidence.

Take your time when you ask and answer questions, avoiding those fill-ins like "ah," "um," and "you know." A well-placed pause shows that you are thoughtful and calm. We tend to talk fast when we are nervous and nervousness will worry a prospective client. Speak clearly and articulately. If you feel that you could use some work on your speaking, join a Toastmasters group. This is an international organization with clubs everywhere that generally meet weekly to help members improve their presentation skills.

Beware the person who thinks he or she knows more than you do. When making a presentation to a group, we must discern who the people are who are interested in our services and those who are skeptical. It is often the skeptical know-it-all who needs most of your attention. Give him or her credit for what they do know, saying, "That's a good point, but I have found " or "What a great question! This is how I see it." Think to yourself, "If I can win this person's approval, he or she will become one of my greatest allies."

If someone asks a question or broaches a problem where you are not sure of the answer, don't be afraid to say, "I am not positive about that. Give me your number or e-mail address, and I will have the answer for you before " (And, of course, be true to your word.) Along that same line, remember that honesty is the best policy.

Just remember, leave intimidation at home. Once you have presented to several groups and in different situations, you will find that the group interaction is exciting and exhilarating and can also provide you with hours and dollars worth of work.