37. (j) Facilitate the participation of individuals who tend not to speak up. Draw them out with direct questions and then acknowledge the value of their comments. Pay particular attention to ensuring equal participation by women and members of minority groups, who may be accustomed to discrimination within their professional setting. A discussion dominated by males, or by the dominant group in the society or professional group, will be less satisfactory for women and members of minority groups, and cannot succeed in convincing other participants in the course (by example) of the importance of non-discrimination in their own work; 37. (k) Do not let discriminatory, intolerant, racist or sexist remarks pass without comment. Address them as you would address any other issue encountered during discussions, i.e. calmly, tactfully, directly and substantively. Point out the relevant standards and explain why they are important for the effective, legal and humane performance of the work of both the United Nations and the relevant profession, and the role they play in fostering professionalism within those groups. Be prepared in advance to counter myths and stereotypes with facts. Remember that the goals of the trainer include the improvement of knowledge, skills and attitudes, and that the latter goal, albeit the most difficult to achieve, is often the most important; 37. (l) Structure your presentation. The old basics are best in this regard: every presentation should have an introduction, a body, a conclusion and a summary of major points; 37. (m) If you are confronted with a question which you are not prepared to respond to, refer to one of the other presenters, or to the audience, or to the materials (having participants look it up), or offer to provide the answer later (and be sure to follow up as promised); 37. (n) Use repetition – people forget; 37. (o) Appearance counts. A trainer must project a professional image. Obviously, it is not appropriate for the trainer to present in a T-shirt while the course participants are in uniform. The dress standards of the trainer should not fall below those of the participants and should respect their cultural and social rules; 37. (p) Prepare in advance – know your subject. Follow these basic steps in preparing your session: 37. (p) – Refer to the training materials provided and to the programme; 37. (p) – Note the time available for the session; 37. (p) – Prioritize the subject matter – be sure to cover the most important (“must know”) points; 37. (p) – Prepare your lesson plan; 37. (p) – Draft your speaking points (introduction, body, conclusion, summary of major points); 37. (p) – Select the exercise and questions to be used; 37. (p) – Select or prepare your visual aids (handouts, overhead transparencies, etc.); 37. (p) – Practise your presentation until you can deliver it naturally and confidently and within the time limit. 18