How to Give a Stellar Presentation
By Rebecca Knight, Harvard Business Review, December 5, 2014
This post has been viewed 2,565 times.
This post has been viewed 2,565 times.
Tell a story
A growing body of research points to the power of stories to change our attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. Bear this in mind as you create your slides and talking points. “Stories wrap information in meaning and help your audience absorb your message in a memorable way,” says Duarte. First-person anecdotes about overcoming hardships or obstacles “build tension,” and give the audience something or someone to cheer for, she adds. The common alternative to stories — overloading your audience “with lists and slides of data and facts” — often results in glazed and distant looks, adds Morgan. “Stories will appeal to them on a deeper emotional level.”
Principles to Remember:
Do
- Research your audience and keep listeners’ wants and needs in mind as you sharpen your content
- Practice your presentation in front of friends or colleagues and be open to their suggestions on how to improve
- Think positive thoughts by reminding yourself of your passion and interest in the topic
Don’t
- Babble, especially at the beginning. Open strong by grabbing your audience’s attention in the first few minutes
- Worry too much about appearing nervous; stage fright is natural and your audience will probably be forgiving
- Overburden your audience with facts and figures; tell stories and anecdotes that will appeal to your listeners on an emotional level
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