Tips for Making a Good Benchmarks Presentation
- When scheduling your presentation, choose nonpartisan organizations/audiences.
- Remember, your goal is to teach participants how to consider an issue, not what to think.
- Follow the outline but be flexible, depending on time constraints and audience.
- Leave personal agendas at the door. Do not politicize the presentation.
- Do not make jokes or disparaging remarks about government officials or institutions.
- Do not use labels such as conservative, liberal, etc.
- Prepare in advance. Ask about the set-up of the room, anticipated number of participants, equipment, etc.
- Be conversational in your approach. Connect with the audience. Do not read the PowerPoint slides.
- Be respectful of diverse viewpoints.
- Do not debate. Invite someone who wants to discuss an issue to speak with you afterward.
- Do not use the program as an opportunity to solicit business.
- Bring someone to help with distribution of materials and equipment as needed.
- Thank your audience. Leave them with something to think about or read — example: Constitution pamphlets.
Developed by the Florida Law Related Education Association