Peak presenting tips: Helen Mac CSP, CVP
Helen Mac is a dynamic emcee (MC). She caught up with Peak Presenting Director, Melinda Smith at the Professional Speakers Australia’s (PSA) annual convention #CADENCE25 to share her top tips for presenting and emceeing at your peak.
Your career history in 200 words
One of the things I like most about my work history is the diversity - I think they call it a “portfolio career” these days! I’ve worked for large corporate and smaller businesses as well as being a business owner for many decades.
I’ve worked as a Business Coach, Facilitator, MC and Speaker across a wide variety of industries and topics. My career allows me to tap into my passion for maximising mindset and outcomes for businesses and people .
I’ve written and contributed to six books (including Secrets of Business Builders Exposed), designed and led hundreds of workshops, and built a strong network of experts.
As a Certified Speaking Professional and Certified Virtual Presenter, I’ve been working with audiences, as a Speaker, MC, Panel Leader and Group Facilitator, for more than four decades. I have delivered sessions and hosted conferences in 14 countries for thousands of people.
My approach has resulted in long-term contracts as a Facilitator, Moderator and MC, both in-person and online. The combination of my professionalism and my dynamic and engaging style gives both clients and audiences an experience that delivers above expectations.
Why focus on being a professional MC?
After decades of presenting at conferences, having been introduced by hundreds of MCs, I’m now applying my communication and connection skills to create ‘best possible’ outcomes at conferences and corporate gatherings.
I love the impact of a well-run conference, which educates and empowers the delegates to go back to their world to make a difference, delivering on the desired outcome of the gathering. I believe that a professional MC can have a powerful influence on the outcome, by creating an energetic space which brings people together synergistically, becoming more than the sum of the parts!
Whether it’s a conference, team gathering, or corporate event, I know how to build an experience where ideas connect, conversations thrive, and optimism fuels engagement - turning a good event into an unforgettable one.
What makes a great MC?
A great MC does more than introduce speakers. They set the tone, manage the energy, and keep the event flowing smoothly. They need an ability to think on their feet, be flexible, and adapt to sudden changes in circumstances, like timelines, catering, last-minute agenda changes, replacement speakers, and even dramatic happenings during the event or in the hosting company… There are dozens of elements that can go off track in a conference or corporate gathering.
To create the best possible outcomes for an event, the emcee must ensure seamless transitions, maximise audience engagement, and manage the room’s energy to maintain momentum.
Favourite experience as an MC?
Earlier this year, I was MC for a whole day event for Professional Speakers Australia. The event brought 15 of the best speakers in Australia together for an audience of expert and aspiring speakers. It was a wonderful challenge! As well as introducing the presenters and supporting them to deliver great content from the platform, I facilitated sessions for the audience, unpacking methodology and delivery styles, to add even more value. My goal was to create best possible outcomes for everyone involved!
Your top tip for an aspiring MC?
Remember that it’s never about you.
You create an environment in which the presenters can do their best work, so the audience gets the intended outcome. Focusing on these two elements will improve the outcome for everyone.
How do you relax outside of work?
I’m very fortunate to live in the beautiful city of Newcastle. My house is walking distance from the ocean, so spending time on and near the beach is a favourite part of my world. I also love going to theatre and music performances…which, as a bonus, provides extra insights into how to deliver great outcomes for audiences!
I’m also passionate about contributing to my community. As an example, I’m currently the President of the Country Women’s Association Newcastle Evening Branch. The CWA is about much more than baking scones or making jams. We advocate for issues affecting women and children and raise funds for a variety of causes including domestic violence support, disaster relief, regional and rural education and medical research.
More about Helen Mac
As well as ‘standard’ MC services -
assisting with flow and running
order crafting introductions
managing and coaching speakers,
and keeping audiences engaged and connected
I have extensive experience of interviewing experts who are uncomfortable with presenting.
I also moderate panel discussions and in facilitate audience discussions and breakouts. As I am a Certified Speaking Professional with Professional Speakers Australia, I can add a keynote element to my emcee role, or fill in if a presenter is unable to attend at the last minute.
For coaching and workshops on delivering effective presentations, please contact our team today.