Role Play 101

With any presentation, an effective format and easy-to-remember structure is to follow this format:

1.  Tell them what you’re going to tell them ........................... (mention your main points)

2.  Tell them ................................................................... (the body of your presentation)

3.  Tell them what you’ve told them ............................................ (restate key takeaways)

1.      Tell them what you’re going to tell them

Your opener is your first chance to make an impression. Introduce yourself, clarify your role, and state what you are being asked in the scenario.

Example openers

“Thank you for meeting with me today. My name is _______ ________, I’m _(your role)_, and I’m here because [describe the request from the role play scenario] …

-         I understand you are looking for assistance with…

-         I understand you have requested help with…

-         I understand you would like to improve…

-         I understand you are looking to develop a strategy for…

-         I understand you are seeking proposals to…

-         I understand you would like feedback on…

-         I’m here to help you achieve your goals / solve the problem / develop a strategy / etc.

2.      TELL THEM

This is the bulk of your presentation. Follow the Performance Indicators (PIs) for your scenario to make your outline – going in order as they are listed will help the judge follow along on their scoring sheet. It is also an easy way to make sure you hit all the required PIs. If you forget something or want to add on to it, you can refer back to it later on.

3.      TELL THEM WHAT YOU TOLD THEM

This is your last impression. Summarize your key takeaways and make sure you have a definite end so you don’t just drift off and stop talking.

Example closings

 “In conclusion, [one-or two sentences that highlight the most important parts of your presentation]… [then add a call to action]

-         In conclusion, our main strategy will be to focus on XYZ

-         In conclusion, you should consider all of these aspects before making a final decision…

-         We would be happy to schedule a follow-up call once you have had time to review…

-         Feel free to contact me in the meantime if you have any questions about this proposal…

-         Here is a business card where you can contact me for any additional questions… (you can make a mock card on a scrap of paper)

-         *Do you have any questions for me?

*Judges will always have a follow up question! Answer them to the best of your ability. 

END your presentation with a classic “Thank you for your time” and remember to push in your chair as you leave.