In a previous post I offered some presentation tips that have served me well over the years. I thought it would be a good time to review some of these points and share additional ones.

Dive in!

I used to give talks that were downright painful. I’d start with introductions, move to a review of objectives, talk about how my presentation would flow, tell you why I was presenting the material and how it would help. Then I’d begin with a series of facts to support my points, or present a theory and discuss all the details around it.  And if 10% of the room was still actually awake at that point I’d be amazed.

You need to connect with your audience immediately or you will not get them back. One of the best ways to do this is to begin “in the middle”. Drop the intros (better yet…have someone else introduce you), and start with a thought provoking question or story.

Storytelling Wins Out

Take note of the video below. How does Dan Heath engage the viewer and explain his main points in such a short period of time? Through the power of story. Stories offer a way for the audience to relate to and emotionally connect with what it is you are trying to say.

Use Imagery (See my “slideshow” post for details)

“You can’t really see the graph, but if you could this is what it would be telling you.”

I cannot tell you how many talks I’ve attended that were riddled with graphs and models that served no purpose.

Use images over text when possible, but be sure they are images people can easily see and understand. Images build interest, connect the audience to your story, and help to create space for change.

Simplify

Be clear about the purpose of your talk and stay the course. Have a key message that will capture people’s attention, and create the kind of positive change you are envisioning. Structure your talk so that your key points are able to shine through.