Presenting yourself in formal settings

Why should I think about how to present myself?

Building trust is vital to influencing change and by being considerate around presentation this can be built faster. In the past this may have meant you needed to stick to a narrow set of presentation rules around clothing, language and behaviour. However, inclusion is vital in all spaces including formal ones like strategic healthcare meetings (and where this is not the case there is legislation such as the quality act to support change). Being aware of what you are doing to help you make the most of opportunities shows respect and a willingness to communicate. A quick website search on personal presentation can provide tips on topics like body language, self-care and image that you might find useful.

I don’t want to be someone I’m not!

This is not about changing who you are, but rather choosing what elements of yourself to share to get the best outcome. It can also help to keep you safe by enabling you to reflect on what you do and do not want to share with others. It allows you to influence others and stay in control in situations, such as meetings or presentations, where you may usually feel uncomfortable or sense a power dynamic.

Conduct in professional environments:

Some meetings or events will have specific rules about conduct, such as how to address the chair, or if you can use the chat when in an online session. Knowing these things can help reduce any anxiety and help you focus on what you want to achieve. In general, if events are very formal, they will have a Terms of Reference document to help make these rules clear. Ask the organisers before you attend for guidance on this.

Tips for ensuring you are heard in meetings:

• Listen to the discussion for hooks, conversation points that you can link to and build on: This makes it easier for people to understand your point of view if they already have a foundation of where it connects in relation to other topics.
• Ask in advance: If you want to make a point at a meeting you can usually ask for it to be added to the agenda
• Consider emotions: Emotions are important in communicating to others and ourselves what we need to pay attention to, and showing emotion can make a strong point. However, emotions can be triggering for your audience and you, having an awareness of this as part of trauma-informed approach and a plan for keeping safe is essential.
• Be confident and clear: Know the facts of what you want to say, perhaps note down some key points to help you. It is ok to read from prepared notes, it can help you stay focused and on topic.
• Interrupt at the right time: You can say something like, “can we just stop there and summarise where we are?” • If you are interrupted: Politely say, “Can I please finish”. This is not rude but assertive
• Learn from others: Listen to how other people get their point across, look at what they do and use these tips for yourself in future
• Be a chameleon, or not!: Consider learning some of the language and terms your audience use. By making an effort to be inclusive they are more likely to accept and listen to what you have to say. Equally by choosing to express your differences you might also strengthen your message.