Tonight I gave a fifty minute talk on Media Center tonight to about 75 students at the University of Waterloo. A big thanks to everyone who came and to everyone who organized the event. Though I'm sure they were there for the free food and XBox draw :).

Looking back on it I'd like to reflect on a few things. Also let this serve as a wake up call to all Waterloo students; one day you till will be called upon to give a non-trivial talk :).

One mistake I know I did make was forgetting that the audience can read the slides. Of course I know this. But knowing and acting upon this are two different things. I also felt I probably should have spoken a little slower, made more eye contact, not focused so much on the left side of the room,... the usual things.

Of course the excuses for my poor performance immediately jump to the fore front of my thoughts. 'But I've only given 5 minute presentations before'. Yes.. That's true. Why is that true? How is it that in five years at university that the longest talk I've likely given is 15 minutes. I also probably had a co-presenter further cutting down that time. That doesn't seem right.

But wait, I'm a pro-active type of student, I took that speech communication public speaking course. What was the longest talk I gave in that class? Eight minutes. Were any of the short talks given with the help (or un-help) of power point? No... Were we ever taught how to speak publicly for long periods of time with slides? No...

But wait, didn't I spend five years watching people every day give one hour talks? Yes... Were any of those people worth emulating? No...

How do I plan on improving? Microsoft offers public speaking training, I'm going to sign up for that. I'll also speak publicly every chance I get. And I urge you to do the same :).

I'm just glad my first big talk was in front of a group of 'fellow' students and not a intimidating group of co-workers.

...Any feedback on content? Yay, nay?
9:53:59 PM   []

Update: Some links if you were at the talk:

• Windows Media Center
• Windows Media Center SDK
• The Green Button

And if you're interested here is my write up about interviewing at Amazon and Microsoft for full time positions.
8:06:13 AM   []