It's no secret that the ability to effectively communicate is an essential skill for High Performance Success. It's also no secret that entirely too many of us struggle with that skill. So what are you to do if you're one of the many?

One of the most effective methods for improving your presentations - whether they be sales presentations, formal briefings or any other prepared material - is to record both the rehearsals and the actual presentation. While audio recordings are good, the best method is to make a video recording. And, with the flood of small, inexpensive video recorders now on the market (not to mention the number of cell phones that have video recording capabilities) recording yourself is easier than ever.

Record your rehearsal once you're fairly comfortable with your material. In order to get the greatest possible benefit, give your presentation in as close to the same environment as is possible, using whatever visual aids you will be using in the actual presentation.

Of course, once you've recorded yourself you have to do something with what you have. Here are the 4 steps that I recommend for using a video recording for improving your presentations:

• Watch it w/out sound. First, turn off the audio and watch yourself in silence. As you watch yourself without the distraction of sound, pay attention to your body language. Do you fidget? Do you appear confident? Are your gestures and movement natural or forced?
• Listen to it w/out video. Next, turn up the volume but turn away from the screen. As you listen to the audio of your presentation pay attention to excessive use of verbal crutches ("Um" Ahh" etc), awkward words and phrases, and the general "flow" of what you're saying.
• Watch and listen. Now, put it all together. Watch, listen and consider the following points. Do your actions match your words? Is the overall impression one of someone who is confident in them self and their material?
• Repeat. Make whatever changes you feel are necessary based on your initial viewing and repeat the process until you are comfortable. It may take more time than you would normally dedicate to preparing for a presentation but it will pay immeasurable dividends in your ability to deliver a professional, engaging and informative presentation.

As I mentioned previously, it's also a great idea to make a video recording of the actual presentation if possible. You can apply the 4 steps from above in watching that recording to prepare yourself for the next time you have the opportunity to present.