Effective Business Presentations 

Course Overview
To create visible leadership, today's executive needs expertise in presentation skills. This course includes how to take control of the speaking situation, target the audience, build personal credibility, and power position ideas for maximum impact. In addition, these core skills will be emphasized: sustaining audience interest, managing apathetic or hostile listeners, and addressing culturally diverse groups. The course will also cover the use of examples, stories, humor, creating quotables, using an effective pattern of idea development, and contingency planning. Finally, managing impromptu and short notice presentations will be an integral part of the course.

Course Structure
Each class session will address three or more presentation skills. Students will prepare and deliver several speeches throughout the six week program. There will be opportunities for both small and large group discussion addressing key issues such as open and closing presentations, managing Q & A, and developing persuasive titles.

Course Materials
Earned Applause
by John A. Jones, Virginia H. Jones
(1999) Second Edition, Champaign , IL: Stipes Publishing
Paperback
$24.95

Reason Aloud! Build Your Success
by Communication Management Associates
(2001) Champaign , IL : Stipes Publishing
CD
ISBN: 0-87563-166-3
$42.90

To purchase both items, please contact Stipes Publishing LLC at (217) 356-8391 or visit their Web site at www.stipes.com.

Grading Criteria, Assessments and Evaluation
Participants are expected to attend five out of six two-hour class sessions. Each student will be expected to prepare and deliver a minimum of two presentations. In addition, the quality of contributions to classroom discussions will affect individual assessment.

Registration Information
Effective Business Presentations, taught by our faculty, is a core course offering in the Business Communication Program.