The Presenter’s Survival Kit: 25 Items You’re Probably Forgetting for Your Next Presentation
We’ve all been there. You’re about to give an important presentation; the room is filling up, and suddenly panic sets in. Did you forget something?
That feeling is so common that I’ve put together this survival guide of 25 presentation essentials that even seasoned presenters often overlook.
Tech Troubles? Not Today!
Picture this: You arrive at the venue, laptop in hand, ready to wow your audience. But wait—the projector has a different connection than your laptop. Or your battery dies mid-presentation. Technology hiccups can derail even the best speakers.
Keep these seven tech essentials in your bag:
- Backup copies of your files (USB and cloud)
- Those pesky adapter dongles (HDMI, VGA, DisplayPort)
- Power cord and extension cable
- Presenter remote/clicker
- Charging cables for all devices
- Mini portable speaker
- Power strip (be the hero everyone needs)
Personal Comfort = Presentation Confidence
Your physical comfort directly impacts your delivery. When you feel good, you present better. Simple as that.
Don’t forget these personal items:
- Water bottle (room temperature is best for your voice)
- Throat lozenges (for unexpected dryness)
- Comfortable shoes (no one sees your feet behind the podium anyway)
- Timer or watch (keep track without checking your phone)
- Personal backup items (medications, tissues, mints)
Paper Products Still Matter
In our digital world, we sometimes forget the power of paper. These old-school tools can save the day when tech fails:
- Printed notes (when your slides disappear)
- Business cards (for those valuable connections)
- Post-it notes (mark pages or jot quick thoughts)
- Scissors (you’d be surprised how often they’re needed)
- Tape or adhesive (for hanging materials or quick fixes)
- Stapler or paper clips (organize handouts in a snap)
Engage Your Audience
The difference between a forgettable presentation and a memorable one? Audience engagement. These tools help create interaction:
- Extra markers and supplies
- Handouts (not everyone wants digital copies)
- Audience response cards
- Sign-up sheet for follow-ups
- Feedback forms
Emergency Kit
Finally, be prepared for the unexpected with:
- Basic toolkit kit (small screwdriver set, pliers)
- First aid supplies (bandages, pain relievers)
Your Tuesday Challenge
This week, create your own presenter’s survival kit filled with your presentation essentials. Start with the categories that matter most for your typical presentations and build from there. Keep it in a dedicated bag so you’re always ready to present at a moment’s notice.
What’s the one item you never leave home without when presenting?
Avoid presentation disasters with this comprehensive guide to 25 presentation essentials that speakers often forget. Share on X
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