New Wave Learning vs Presenting in the Digital Age: An Art, a Science, or Both?

In the modern business landscape, the ability to effectively communicate and present complex ideas has transcended traditional boundaries. Businesses are using videos to communicate all sorts of messages with their clients and their employees. We are bombarded with stories being told on social media. An “Influencer” is now recognised (and aspired to) as a job (with degree courses to support). So what is presenting as a skill now? Is it an art or science? We aim to explore both realms of presenting in this article.

The Science of Presenting: More Than Just Data

When we talk about the science of presenting, we're referring to more than just the data behind effective communication. It's about understanding the psychological underpinnings of how messages are received and processed. For instance, cognitive psychology teaches us about the limits of attention and memory, guiding how we design presentations that are not only informative but also engaging and easy to digest.

The science extends to the structure of your presentations. By leveraging scientifically-backed methodologies, such as storytelling arcs and the rule of threes, you ensure your presentations are memorable and impactful. These techniques are particularly crucial when conveying complex technical or functional information via video—a medium that demands precision and clarity to maintain viewer engagement.

The Art of Presenting: Engaging Your Audience

Conversely, the art of presenting emphasises creativity, empathy, and adaptability. It's about understanding and connecting with the mood, needs, and expectations of your audience—tailoring each presentation to resonate on a more personal level. This artistic aspect involves selecting the right tone, style, and visuals (if you’re using them but we have an opinion on that too for a future article!) that align with your message and audience.?

In video presentations, the art of presenting is visible in how you use visual aids, the pacing of your speech, and how effectively you can translate presence through a digital medium. It’s about making your audience feel as if you’re speaking directly to them, breaking the fourth wall of digital communication.

Bridging Art and Science with New Wave Learning

At New Wave Learning, we recognise that senior leaders in large organisations face unique challenges with their technical and functional experts. They need SME’s (subject matter experts) to not only be adept at their roles but also to become confident speakers who can champion your brand through a diverse range of mediums from in person, to online meetings and video presentations. This skill set is no longer a desirable skill? but a critical component of an organisation's communication strategy to enhance client and employee attraction, engagement and brand loyalty.

At New Wave Learning our communication skills programmes blend the art and science of presentation. These programmes have the potential to transform your experts into compelling storytellers. We equip them with:

1. Scientifically-backed frameworks to structure their presentations for maximum impact.
2. Artistic techniques to enhance their delivery and ensure their message is not simply heard but felt, so that people think, feel or do something as a result of the communication.
3. Confidence to present with impact through practice, coaching and feedback from expert facilitators who understand both the science and art of communication.

Understanding the dual nature of presenting—as both an art and a science—helps connect the dots between everyday business challenges and effective solutions. By enhancing your team's presenting skills, you're not merely improving their ability to communicate; you're also boosting your firm's overall market presence and the quality of client interactions.

In an era where digital communication continues to dominate, the value of a well-crafted presentation cannot be overstated. This is where we see the science of presenting taking the lead; clarity and confidence in the steps to prepare and the purpose of the message. The art of presenting is a feeling; where passion, personality and presence lead the way.??

If you are ready to?transform your technical experts into confident, impactful presenters who will carry your brand’s message forward with authenticity and authority on whatever stage you need them to perform then, together, we can turn the art and science of presenting into your competitive advantage.

https://www.newwavelearning.com/programmes/moveme