We’ve all been there: the never-ending department meeting. What started out as a potentially interesting presentation from a fellow colleague on the latest company initiatives has turned into “death by PowerPoint.”
Effective communication is inevitable and necessary in almost any work environment. So how can you be prepared for that moment when the tables are turned and it is YOUR responsibility to save your viewers and listeners from the pitfall of chronic boredom? Here are a few tips to ensure your audience is intrigued, invested, and enthusiastic—or at least not slumping down in their seats at the word “hello.”
There are three key components to master in the art of effective presentations: yourself, your visual, and your audience.
Whether you like it or not, you are the main attraction. Eyes and ears are on you. For that very reason, make sure you rehearse. You might be the most charismatic person in the office, but lack of practice will reflect, and in turn decrease your credibility. No matter how mundane your topic of choice may be, start with drawing in your audience through body animation and eye contact. Make them feel like you are talking to them and not at them. Let your inflection show your passion. Another important piece often overlooked, tell a story! We are a relational society who thrives on being entertained. Try to relate to your audience through a personal experience, a humorous memory, or even something sentimental. This will encourage personal investment from your viewers.
Then there’s your counterpart; your visual sidekick. In most business industry cases, this will be your PowerPoint or Keynote presentation. How do you make sure it compliments and not distracts? First of all, less is more. It’s natural to want to throw your entire script up on the slides. It’s easy reference and if you miss anything, at least you know it was there. As a guideline, keep in mind the 10-20-30 rule: 10 slides, 20 minutes, 30 point font or larger. According to Inc.com, it’s best just to keep it simple. Simple graphics, solid and neutral backgrounds, and minimal special effects will be most appealing to your viewer. Those may seem like obvious stipulations, but it’s easy to get carried away with the dissolving and fading capabilities.
If you already know your presentation is pushing an hour, it is still possible to follow the 20-minute guideline. Give breaks! Trust me, your audience will be thrilled for even just a couple minutes to check emails, grab a snack, and stretch their legs. It will rejuvenate them enough to power through the next 20-minute segment. Think about it, your audience approval is your ultimate goal and you should be focusing on their needs. Invite interaction. Audiences will be likely to pay more attention if they know they can participate and play a part in what you are saying. Ask them questions or create an activity that will get them involved.
Looking for more ideas on how to engage your audience? Connect with us for help.
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