Presenting? Three Quick Tips

One of the benefits of delivering a lot of speeches is the chance to watch others, and learn from them as well.

Here are three things that I've learned and used along the way. I hope they serve you well:

1. Don't Let "The Facts" Speak for Themselves

People can make facts and numbers mean almost anything. I think it was Mark Twain who noted, "There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics." 

Facts need interpretation, so interpret yours. And, be prepared to cite the source and how those facts were determined. 

2. Use Two Kinds of Numbers

Exact numbers sound very credible: "The number of survey participants who said the company is communicating "very well" is 61.7 percent." The human mind processes that as "sounding exact" and, therefore, accurate.

Rounded numbers offer the appearance of an estimation. "Almost two-thirds" is easier to remember than 61.7 percent.

Which to use if you want the numbers to be credible and memorable?

Both. Use the exact number first and round it off later when you refer to it in examples.

3. Capitalize on the Legitimacy of the Printed Word.

For some--actually about 75%--having something on paper makes it official and "real." 

Think about this: Even small business owners (smart ones) print fees, prices, terms, and conditions on their official stationery. When you quote something verbally it makes it subject to negotiation. Whether you're selling a concept, a motorcycle, or a holiday cruise, put it in a written form--even if it's a picture--that someone can see, touch, and hold. 

Make it real.

 

Comments

[Vinyl Stickers]

Good design doesn’t just sell products. It fosters collaboration, communicates strategy, sets expectations, improves the efficiency of a team, and most importantly inspires and motivates like nothing else. A good design also has the ability to remind us that we’re working on something worthwhile, which is another way design can help fuel productivity.

[Elaine]

Number 3... Ha, ha!

So true, if something looks "official" it must be locked in stone.

Service providers know this. That's why people don't negotiate services like cell phone plans, internet, or cable, even though you usually can, especially if you are an existing customer.

[Steve Roesler]

Elaine:

Good observation. Now maybe it's time for a few tips on overcoming that!

[John Waite]

Great post, presentations for me are always a bit of uneven ground, as I am a nervous public speaker anyway. But number 2? So true, when you hear 'around half of the population', it just shows to the audience you don't have solid facts to back up your point.

It's so hard to keep the audience interested but I'm sure these tips will help!

[Helping You Hire]

I will have to pass these tips along to my colleagues. At our staffing solutions company there are always presentations to be made and hopefully these tips will make the presentation go even better.