There are different type of microphones and related set-up of the microphones. As part of the preparation for your presentation you should also consider what type of microphone to use that best suits your presentation.
- A hand-held microphone. May be a good option when you have a brief presentation. Also helpful if you need to hand over to other speakers or during an interview setting.
- Microphone on a stand. May be good when you need to stand on a certain location and need both hands, or don’t want to hold a microphone for a longer time period.
- A wireless headset microphone provides ultimate freedom on the stage. The microphone is fixed close to your mouth so volume can be optimized. Do be careful that the microphone may be turned on when you are not presenting (to avoid embarrassing moments).
- A lapel microphone (or lavalier microphone) that clips on your shirt. This type of microphone also provides freedom to move around on stage. There are systems to have the lapel microphone attached underneath your cloths, but most cases it will just have to clip on your shirt. When you decide what clothes to wear during your presentation you should consider where the lapel microphone could be attached.
With any type of microphone it is important to test upfront if it works and that you are comfortable using it during your presentation.
When you start with your presentation the first words that you say shouldn’t be to do a sound check for your microphone. When you do this it is a signal of not being well prepared and you may lose the attention of your audience from the start.