If you are like me, your presentation will depend on technology. How do you make sure everything goes your way? There’s a few things that you need to know. First, you need a backup. I create one on a USB stick and another one I put in the Cloud, so that I can access it from any device. When I create the backup, I usually create a PDF, so I can open that file from any computer and any device.

Bring a spare system. Presentation professionals travel with two identical laptops. You don’t need to be that nerdy. But probably you’re carrying a smartphone or a tablet. I’m sure there’s some kind of cable that you can use to connect that to a projector. There you go! You have a spare system.

Write a packing list. Because there’s a lot of bits and pieces that have to come together in order for you to present with your technology.

Get a wireless clicker, it’s one of the best investments that you can make. I suggest to get one with a timer; Learn some keyboard shortcuts that are relevant to your system. It will make you more confident while you’re on the stage.

Don’t rely on the fact that you are going to find a tech team in place when you arrive to present. Imagine that you’re alone and that you have to setup everything on your own, this way you’ll be best prepared for any technical emergency.