Most openings to business presentations are rote, dull, and pro forma. However, when done well, an opening serves three critical functions: 1. They create a hook so the audience pays attention. 2. They set the tone and frame, especially when using a strong image or...
When constructing your next presentation, edit your content until you've reached the most elegant, clear form. Discard useless words like "help." Specifically describe what you did for the client. Eliminate data overload and focus on what the client wants to hear that will serve them...
As a path into the consciousness of their character, actors leave breadcrumbs for audiences. One method is to develop a psychological gesture, or a repeatable, physical tell. It could be pulling at a strand of hair, twisting a wedding ring, or facial tic. However, we often...
John Meacham's new book Songs of America is a terrific look at our country through the lens of lyrics and music. We were fascinated with his discussion of "I" vs "We" in evoking communality. Meacham explains that My Country Tis of Thee and This Little Light of Minewere written specifically to reflect communal...
A recent episode of Shark Tank illustrated how props can impact a presentation. Two gents from Nashville were pitching a foolproof door lock. To demonstrate the ease of breaking through traditional deadbolts, they set up two prop doors side by side. Former Army pilot Bertelli kicked the deadbolt door,...
This past week, the U.S. women's soccer team brought home the World Cup. They are the most successful team in international women's soccer, having won four World Cup titles, four Olympic gold medals, and eight Gold Cups. These athletes are in a class all their...
Why are audiences attracted to manufactured reality? TV shows like Survivor, Shark Tank, The Real Housewives of...
In Oklahoma City last week, we trained a group of interns attached to the Oil and Gas Industry. Like many of our clients, these young engineers, attorneys, CPA’s and scientists were challenged to construct client anecdotes or case studies. The truth is, no one was born...
Would that we all had the recall abilities of Sherlock Holmes or Jeopardy champ James Holzhauer. But we humans can employ some of history's best memory tools. Your kids undoubtedly sang "The Alphabet Song" to learn letters. And, as we referenced in a recent tip, the ancient...
Last week, in a training for female leaders at Glidewell Dental, we were discussing the necessity of building professional networks. One attendee was spot-on when she described effective networking as similar to a ‘first date.’ Remember one of your first dates? Your senses were alert; your...