For a long time, I’ve advised against using a script for presentations—whether you’re on stage or in a meeting room.
Why?
Because when we rely on a script (memorized or written), we tend to focus on that instead of on the audience.
And when we focus on the script, the audience feels it.
Less engagement. Less connection. Less impact.
But last week, I gave a presentation that challenged me in many ways.
Yes—even after more than 20 years of coaching business professionals in Japan to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact.
And that experience changed my mind about using a script.
As I share this story, I’ll also weave in practical techniques you can use yourself—so think of this as a mini masterclass 😉
THE CHALLENGING CIRCUMSTANCES
1. Limited prep time
I was invited on relatively short notice after the original speaker had to drop out.
Aaaaaaand…
I left the prep until the last minute.
Due to various things going on (you can probably relate), I only began preparing that afternoon for a talk starting just after 6 p.m.
2. A large, mixed audience
There were over 100 people in the room.
The larger the audience, the wider the range of perspectives—which makes it harder to create something that resonates with everyone.
And this group included female founders, investors, and supporters.
3. Sensitive new material
The theme was “Female Founder Failure Lightning Talks.”
I had five minutes.
The speaker scheduled before me (the amazing Nanako Aramaki) was sharing her burnout story. I also have burnout stories… but I’ve told them before.
I wanted to offer something different.
So I chose to speak about a business investment I made that went very badly—resulting in a significant financial loss that affected me physically, mentally, and emotionally.
When people who are perceived as “successful” reveal their struggles, it can be powerful and liberating for others.
But when you’re the one standing there being vulnerable?
That’s a different experience.
I even said:
“Even though some people know me as an experienced and confident presenter—and might see this as a small step—I can assure you… this is a giant leap for Helen-kind.”
With limited prep time and no rehearsal, I knew it would be difficult to stay coherent, connect with the whole audience, and remember everything I wanted to say.
SO HERE’S WHAT I DID
✔️ Gave myself support
I realized I needed prompts.
No slides. No time to create them.
Then I had an idea.
I held a storybook… and clipped my script inside it.
Because I’ve trained and practiced presentation skills for so many years, I was calm and creative enough under pressure to think of this.
The Helen of 15 years ago?
She would not have come up with that.
✔️ Checked the setup in advance
I confirmed I’d be using a handheld microphone, not a pin mic.
That meant:
Book in one hand.
Mic in the other.
Limited gesturing.
So I practiced with that exact setup in mind.
Constraints can reduce your options—but they can also sharpen your choices.
✔️ Practiced—even with limited time
People underestimate how much practice matters.
Your reptilian brain dislikes uncertainty.
The more you simulate the experience, the calmer it becomes.
And practice doesn’t only mean running through your presentation once.
Here’s what I did:
- Practiced in front of a mirror holding the book and a hairbrush (mic substitute)
- Practiced voice-only while putting on makeup
- Practiced mentally on the way to the venue.
Visualization isn’t just for top-class athletes.
It works for presenters too.
✔️ Reviewed my performance
Nanako kindly sent me the video.
I reviewed it using my usual method:
Going Great
Do Differently
This is how I teach my clients to evaluate themselves.
It allows you to
✔ Acknowledge what worked
✔ Improve intentionally next time
✔ Build confidence based on evidence
KEY TAKEAWAY
I still recommend avoiding a script where possible.
Connection matters.
But in certain situations—
limited prep time,
unfamiliar audiences,
sensitive content—
a script can provide stability.
The key is not whether you use a script.
The key is whether you use it strategically.
Women’s Presentation Workshop
A focused 60-minute online session for women managers and senior professionals who want to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and impact in global meetings and presentations.
Maximum 5 participants per workshop.