When you’re the one giving the presentation, instead of hiring or helping the speaker - you may be excited, nervous, or downright petrified.  But, never fear.  You have a friend. This friend isn’t a person, but rather an object.  It’s usually made of wood and provides a slanted surface on which to place notes.  It can be about four feet tall and stand up by itself, or a smaller version can be placed on a table. 

If this item is going to be your friend, it might be nice to know his name.  Surprise!  It isn’t a podium.  It’s called a lectern.  By way of distinction, a podium is the stage or platform on which you stand. 

You may be saying - wait a minute!  I’m a professional meeting planner or hospitality professional, of course I knew that.  Well, . . .  I’ve spoken professionally for 15 years, and you’d be amazed how many “professionals” in the industry call it the wrong thing.

In fact, when I first started speaking, I was being a little pompous one day writing an article about lecterns and podiums - only to discover that I’d misspelled the word “lectern.”  (Hey, it rhymes with “urn.”  Shouldn’t it be spelled “lecturn”?)  Now, I also know how to spell “humble pie.”

Since you know the correct terminology, and I know the correct spelling, let’s talk about what a great friend the lectern can be.  A lectern is the perfect place to put your stuff.  In addition to notes, you can put a stopwatch or clock on the lectern.  You can store your props and visual aids inside.  You can also hide door prizes, treats, or surprises. 

There’s only one thing you shouldn’t put behind the lectern - you.  That’s right.  I am a big advocate of using lecterns, but only for your stuff.  Not for you.

Now, let me clarify.  There are three situations when it may be best to stay behind the lectern.  One, your presentation is brief (two or three minutes).  Two, the occasion is very formal.  Three, the physical arrangement doesn’t allow you to move.  A classic example is a lectern located in the middle of a head table.  Note - since you’re the meeting planner you should almost always avoid this arrangement.

If you aren’t in one of those situations, you don’t get to stand behind the lectern for the entire presentation.  If you do, it becomes a place to hide.  

Instead, walk around.  Become part of the group.  At the very least, move around the stage area.  You certainly may return to the lectern.  You may even stand behind it for a little while.  Just no camping back there. 

If you are uncomfortable walking around, try standing beside the lectern.  This helps break the barrier between “you” the speaker and “them” the audience. 

From this position beside the lectern, you can still see your notes.  I learned this trick of the trade very early.  I am petite, and most of the deluxe lecterns are taller than I am.  My only option is to stand beside the lectern.  Otherwise, from behind the lectern, I look like a peeping Tom with nothing but my eyeballs showing.

If you want to create a more informal or warm atmosphere, try gently resting an arm on the side of the lectern.  You’ll appear relaxed and comfortable.

Even a friend as nice as a lectern does have pitfalls.  It’s a magnet for bad habits.  Watch yourself.  Are you . . . drumming your fingers on the wood?  Gripping the sides until your knuckles turn white?  Flopping over the lectern as though it were a couch?  Although lecterns are sturdy, their purpose is not to hold you up.  Stand up!

Befriend your lectern.  Use it as an effective speaking tool, not a partner for hide and go seek.
 
Kelly offers monthly teleseminars for hospitality managers & meeting planners.  Visit www.KeepCustomers.com to receive free “10 Tips to Deal with Upset Customers.”  +1.812.246.2424 or kelly@keepcustomers.com.