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You need to think through the facilities that you will need for your presentation. In particular, the way in which your seating is arranged has an important effect on the success of your presentation.

What accessories will you need at your presentation? You will probably bring your own laptop; will a projector be provided? Check that the power supply is close to your electrical equipment or that an extension lead is available. Again, allow enough time to check that your laptop connects properly with the projector. Will you need a flipchart? Flipchart pens?

one minute wonder How powerful is your voice? If the room is large, will a microphone and amplification equipment be provided? You will need to make sure you know how the equipment works and practise using it if at all possible.

• Rows and horseshoes. Think through the seating arrangements. If your audience is large (over 30) and the seating is formal with little interaction, then the layout of seating in rows may be best. If the audience is 20-30 and there is room, then an arrangement in a horseshoe (semi-circle) works well. This allows participants to work in pairs or to talk to one another a little. The disadvantage, however, is that it does not facilitate teamwork or group discussion.

• Cabaret seating. If one of your aims is to develop teamwork, interaction and discussion among the participants, then seating around tables (‘cabaret style’) works well, with five or six seated at each table, allowing room for workbooks, water, pens, etc. A possible disadvantage is that some participants may only be able to see you as presenter or if they turn around from the table.

• Furniture for you. Think whether you will speak from a lectern or table, or without any furniture at all.

• Drinking water. Will water be provided for you or should you take a bottle and glass with you?

Whichever layout you choose, give clear instructions to the organizers in advance, but also allow time before your presentation to check that your instructions have been carried out.

The seating arrangement, equipment and accessories need to be planned in advance.