In PowerPoint, the default Slide Show viewing options (installed with the software) are less than optimal when it comes to delivering a presentation. Fortunately, by un-checking a few boxes, you can make all of your presentations run smoothly. Continue reading
The Note Giveth and the Note Taketh
There are two ways to offer an audience an opportunity to have “notes” on your presentation. You can create note-GIVING handouts that already contain key information; or, you can design handouts that leave some area or space for note-TAKING by the audience. Continue reading
PowerPoint “Loop” Option
In any version of PowerPoint, one of the slide show SET UP options allows you to set a given presentation so that it does not jump back to the PC interface (desktop) after ending. Continue reading
Assessment Methods Study
How do you evaluate speakers, presenters, trainers, teachers, and anyone else who communicates to groups? Typically, the assessment is taken from the perspective of the audience. But research shows that by using additional forms of evaluation, such as views of managers or colleagues (peers), and even self-assesment, one can gain a better sense of a speaker’s effectiveness. Continue reading
Teaching Effectiveness Study
A comprehensive study has been published showing the preferences by audiences of a person’s presentation skills. Based on the findings, it now possible to pinpoint the exact elements that make a speaker more (or less) effective, depending on the type of audience. Continue reading
Fear of Speaking?
Do you get nervous before a presentation? Share your thoughts on what you think might be causing those nerves?
Is it a fear of being judged by others; or, is it a fear of forgetting what to say; or, a fear of looking foolish?
What is YOUR biggest fear?
Profiling Works!
Over the past two years we have had a number of opportunities to “profile” different organizations, to determine where the strengths and challenges exist concerning presentation effectiveness. Now you can measureme how your company, team, or group fits into the overall strategy of presenting. Continue reading
What’s in a Handout?
If you decide to give handouts, the content becomes an important issue. The handouts should always be “different” from the presentation.
Don’t fall into the trap of printing out a hard copy of your visuals for the audience to take away with them. This presents a problem, especially when the presentation is designed conceptually. Continue reading
Give ’em a Hand on Broadway
You can learn a lot about the power of hand gestures by watching Ben Vereen and the entire cast from the Broadway musical PIPPIN. Continue reading
Coldplay Reaches Out
The Coldplay hit Viva la Vida is loosely translated as “Long Live Life” but lead-singer Chris Martin creates a unique connection to his audience with a series of rhythmic “reaching out” gestures. Continue reading