High Impact Presentations

HIGH IMPACT PRESENTATIONS

Dr Robert Cialdini?of “The Psychology of Persuasion,” made some valid and breakthrough points when he laid down his seven laws of persuading others.

We can, in business presentations too, use the science behind these laws. Here’s how it can be done.

Law One, Reciprocity?– People tend to return a favor for a favor.

While presenting make sincere efforts to educate your audience a bit. Offer insights into life, offer ways to improve work or, really offer tangible value. This will perk up people and make them trust you and the rest of your proposals.

Law Two, Commitment and Consistency?– If people commit, orally or in writing, to an idea or goal, they are more likely to honor that commitment.

While presenting ask several rhetorical and open-ended questions to which your audience will respond, speak up, and, thus commit to their own articulations.

Law Three, Social Proof?– People will do things that they see other people doing.

In presentations, offer true and tested testimonials from well-known people or organizations. Cite true examples of successful usage of your products or services by others.

Law Four, Authority?– People tend to be influenced by authorities and celebrities.

If your product or service is certified, or recognized by a legit institution or authority, please make a point to cite that fact. This action authenticates and makes your presentation persuasive.

Law Five, Liking?– People are easily persuaded by other people that they like.

Presentation skills teachers and trainers across the world will tell you to dress nicely, groom yourself well, smell good, and smile.?I say yes to all that and would like to add that you must also feel good inside. Groom your heart, and mind to be happy and loving towards your audience. They will, in return, like you, and appreciate your thoughts and presentation.

Law Six, Scarcity?– Perceived scarcity will generate demand and therefore give power to the one owning title to the things in demand.

Uhh, be a little careful with this one when it comes to business presentations. Today, we live in a world highly driven by eco-consciousness and ethics. State and express scarcity of products or services only if there is one. Do not create an artificial perception of scarcity. You need to?earn, have, and keep their trust.?Truly.

Law Seven, Stay Cool –?This one is by yours truly.?One thing Dr. Cialdini didn’t talk about and which is very high up for me while making presentations is that one must always stay cool. Stay cool under pressure. Stay cool when it is hot in the room. Stay cool when things go wrong. Keep your cool even when messing up your talk. Stay cool because people have the uncanny ability to read real intentions intuitively and are more influenced by what they sense and feel rather than what they see or hear.

There are a thousand ways to be more persuasive but nothing, nothing influences others more than you being your authentic self. Have fun!