Rehearsals vs. Reality: Embracing Live Presentations

Many speakers get thrown off when their presentation doesn’t match their rehearsal. Maybe they say something out of order or forget to mention a specific detail. While this might feel like a big deal to the speaker, the audience usually has no idea a mistake even occurred. That’s because they have no reference point since they don’t know how the presentation was originally planned. The only way they’ll notice an error, is if the speaker draws attention to it.

If you make a small mistake, just move on. If you realize you forgot an important detail, avoid saying, “Oh, I forgot to mention…” or “I meant to say this earlier…” Instead, seamlessly introduce the information with phrases like, “And something I’ll add is…” or “I’d also like to point out…” This helps the narrative move forward smoothly.

If you do make a bigger mistake, try not to wince or react negatively. Instead, calmly say, “I’ll clarify that…” and continue. Try to handle presentation mishaps the same way you would in a regular conversation—with ease. Mistakes only become a big deal if you make them one. The more dramatic the reaction, the more memorable the mistake. 

Rehearsals are a preparation tool, not a rigid script. They help establish a strong foundation, but a live presentation is more dynamic. Factors like the audience, the room’s energy, and the moment itself make each talk unique. Part of what makes public speaking exciting is its unpredictability. Embracing these nuances allows for a more natural, engaging experience.
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In order to prepare for a presentation, remember to stay flexible and present. The audience isn’t there to judge whether everything goes exactly as planned—they’re there to connect with you and your story.

​Author: Bri McWhorter
​© Activate to Captivate, LLC