Guidelines for Rehearsal Criticism

It is both good planning and considerate to provide auditors with a guide for their criticism. It would be quite difficult for them to note everything which needs attention without some reminder of what to look for. A critique is worthless unless it is clinical and objective. At this stage, a trainer is looking for what is wrong with their presentation more than for what is right. The critics must be merciless. (Better them than the audience.)

Criticism should center upon both the subject matter and the main guidelines of good presenting. Ideally, the critics should read this article as a foundation for their criticism, but if they have not done so, the following guidelines are designed to give directions to the auditors in what to look for. 1. Attitude: There is appropriate enthusiasm and sincerity, without appearing egocentric. 2. Content: The information is valid and accurate. 3. Structure: There is clear evidence of a unified, central structure which is easy to follow. 4. Introduction: The introduction is attention-getting and says what the presentation contains. 5. Conclusion: The conclusion ties the information together. 6. Audience Awareness: They understand and empathize with the audience. 7. Supportive Materials: Visuals are clear and easy to see and comprehend. 8. Delivery: Language, diction, and pronunciation are cultured and appropriate.

Copyright AE Schwartz & Associates All rights reserved. For additional presentation materials and resources: ReadySetPresent and for a Free listing as a Trainer, Consultant, Speaker, Vendor/Organization: TrainingConsortium

CEO, A.E. Schwartz & Associates, Boston, MA., a comprehensive organization which offers over 40 skills based management training programs. Mr. Schwartz conducts over 150 programs annually for clients in industry, research, technology, government, Fortune 100/500 companies, and nonprofit organizations worldwide. He is often found at conferences as a key note presenter and/or facilitator. His style is fast-paced, participatory, practical, and humorous. He has authored over 65 books and products, and taught/lectured at over a dozen colleges and universities throughout the United States.