1. Come fresh. Get a good night's sleep the night before. 2. Know your presentation. Don't read. 3. Be sharp. Decide on one message per slide. 4. Take a deep breath before you start. 5. Be confident. Know that nobody knows everything. You've got this!

They are experts in the industry, deeply knowledgeable and highly experienced. However, being given the opportunity to speak to them is a reminder that you bring something valuable to the table. Consider yourself capable of delivering a speech that not only inspires and impacts them but also brings a fresh perspective that could challenge their views or ignite new ideas.

I like to do a bit of research on who the experts and executives in the room are. After identifying what they do, I will ensure that I connect some of the crucial points to them in a talk by addressing them directly. For example: "I am very keen to hear your thoughts on the next point, as an expert in Economic Development." Then state the point. The other is to make industry specific illustrations to groups in various industries. For Example: "I wonder how the CFOs would feel about this next point I'm about to make." The key is to give due regard to these 4 factors: their expertise, presence and implore their attention and engagement. These two examples achieves all 4 effectively.

Preparation. Knowing your material inside and out you're less likely to be thrown off or forget a point. Practice your delivery, anticipate possible questions and rehearse answers so you can speak fluidly and with authority. Confidence often comes from competence.

To exude confidence - 1. Research about the educational background and work experience of the audience - this helps in creating the content, choosing right stories, examples, anecdotes and words. 2. Practice deep breathing technique everyday. This helps to overcome shakiness in voice and body when we are nervous. 3. Don't forget to smile. Be excited and energetic yourself first. They are contagious. 4. Dress the part. Don't take it lightly. 5. Open body posture looks best. Practice this too. Take every presentation as your last chance and you will definitely see the change in your delivery style.

Know your material! Don't ChatGPT it, or let an assistant do it for you as a room full of experts can spot a faker straight away.

Preparation & Edge! Whether industry experts, or otherwise - preparation for any speech is key. The other thing that's important is - identifying your area of strength and bringing your unique perspective. Industry experts already have the data and the experience - chances are - your perspective may be unique and hold their attention. When speaking in front of experts - try to behave like a learner - always helps - because simplicity often gets lost in the face of expertise :)