7 tips for influencing listeners in presentations
November 20, 2013 12:13 PM
1. Start by asking, What do I want someone to say, do or think after hearing my presentation?
Graham says that if you dont have clear picture of how you want your audience to react after, they will be confused and dissatisfied. He says write down how you want your message to be perceived and then build your presentation from there.
2. Use examples of good presentations youve liked
Graham says think about what was good and bad in recent presentations that you walked away from generally liking. Write down why you didnt like it, for example if was too fast, too long, too much information, heard it before, etc. Also write down why you liked it, for example if it had good stories, was easy to follow, good pace, well organized, etc.
3. Remember that a presentation is a joint venture between the presenter and audience
Graham says the presentation belongs as much to you as it does to the listeners. He says to pretend youre looking over your own should as you prepare think about what will make it work and thoroughly understand the audience so you can critique yourself from their perspective.
4. Connect with stories
Tell stories to keep the focus on your listeners. Graham says to keep in mind that the presentation is about them, so think of stories that will be relevant to them dont tell ones about yourself or your kids.
5. Write them out word-for-word
Grahams says people dont do this a lot because they think they want to keep the talk informal. He says if you dont write it out, youre sure to forget something or mess something up at a major point.
6. Turn on your presentation GPS
Graham says the general rule of thumb for getting through a presentation is to start out with something that will really capture your listeners attention, make three or so easy-to-remember points and then finish up by summarizing what you told them. He adds: Never end with a question or quotation. Its the easy way out but it doesnt work. Always end in your own words.
7. Get coached
Even if you have to turn to the next cubicle or a friend or significant other, Graham says find a person who knows you want to do well and practice with them. Ask them to take notes and discuss honest, constructive feedback on their points.
