Here is a list of tips that you can use when preparing for your Selection Panel to ensure that it will be a success.
Introduce yourselves. Remember that each team member should participate in the Selection Panel presentation.
Convince the Panelists that your Venture will be successful. This should be the focus of your presentation. All of the information you share should help illustrate why your Venture will be successful.
Explain your Venture idea. This may be the first time Panelists hear your idea, so your explanation needs to be clear. If possible, include brief a story that illustrates the need for your Venture.
Outline your Action Plan. Your Action Plan contains all of the information that will be important to share with the Selection Panel. Don’t read your Action Plan word-for-word; rather use it as an outline for your presentation.
Provide visual aids. Visual aids can be incredibly useful; they help audience members recall your information and sometimes they can more effectively illustrate or emphasize concepts. Visual aids you might consider include: PowerPoint presentations, short videos, photos of your team in action, posters, and graphs or charts to illustrate your Venture’s need, impact, or budget.
Speak loudly and clearly, and make eye contact. You know what goes into a good presentation. Practice delivering your presentation before attending the Selection Panel. This will help ensure a smooth delivery. If you need more ideas on how to give a good presentation, check out the Youth Venture tip sheet, “Public Speaking.”
Don’t be nervous about answering the Selection Panel’s questions. They are not there to test you; they are asking questions to help themselves better understand your Venture and to help you think about your idea from a new perspective.
Thank the Panelists and audience. Remember, they’ve volunteered their time to attend your presentation!