Presentation Prison. We need a plan!

If you've ever felt like giving a presentation is something to endure, avoid, or fake a car accident to get out of -- there's hope! These tips will help you feel less nervous, connect with your audience and perhaps even begin to change the way you think about presenting.

I've been working on a lengthy training document for a new client and I thought I would share a few of my favorite tips here.

Five Ways to Break out of Presentation Prison

1. HOW TO BEGIN: Have a conversation with your audience from the first moment. (Even before you "begin" while setting up or prior to being onstage.) Once you begin, talk to them -- not at them. Ask them questions. Truly listen. If it's a large group then ask them to imagine, remember, envision solutions, successes, etc. Ask them for a show of hands, anything to get them involved. If you want them to remember -- get them involved.
2. THEY ARE THE HERO: The best presentations have structures like stories. The best stories make the listener feel like they are the protagonist. Help your audience understand what their journey will be.
3. WHAT WILL THEY REMEMBER?: Lead with passion and share your vision for what is possible. This could be as simple as saving time using new software, or as complex as introducing a five-year plan.
4. WHAT ABOUT MOVEMENT?: If there's a podium, don't use it unless you have to. Our physicality can persuade, help manage an audience, and express much more than words can alone. Podiums are a great place for stuff -- but not for hiding.
5. SLIDES?: You may not need slides! If you do -- your slides should support your message with bold, bright, eye-catching graphics and few words. If you remember back to the most memorable moments in your life they each likely involve emotion, story, relationships, and passion. Slides can only convey a ghost of these things; it's up to you to do the rest.

It's time we all broke out of prison -- love to hear your presentation prison escape suggestions.

Best - Forest

*If you're a previous Perfecting the Pitch participant and have lost track of your BI Story/Presentation Planner or any other documents, please let me know and I will send you a digital version.