When you are presenting with another person, coordination is key. Otherwise the other guy might get the spotlight while you get the hook. A presenter gets the shaft Here's the sad story of a friend of mine whose well-prepared speech was overwhelmed by her co-presenter's lack of preparation: So … [Read more...] about How do you deal with a bad co-presenter?
How to make a terrible first impression
How often have you heard that first impressions are important? Only about a bazillion times, right? People tend to form judgments on others within the first few seconds of meeting them. If you make a good first impression as a presenter, then you will have a more positive impact on your audience. … [Read more...] about How to make a terrible first impression
How to give a lousy presentation: confidence vs. doubt
You only get one chance to make a good first impression. If you're able to prepare for your presentations, to anticipate any questions and to thoroughly practice what you're going to say, then you're going to do great! On the other hand, if you have any self doubt you need to be able to overcome it … [Read more...] about How to give a lousy presentation: confidence vs. doubt
Why do engineers make such bad slides?
Sometimes, the smartest people can create the least informative PowerPoint presentations. Why? Because they have an Engineering Mindset. The Engineering Mindset means being methodical, examining all available data, testing hypotheses, and coming to conclusions after a lengthy process. The trouble … [Read more...] about Why do engineers make such bad slides?
Why copying other people’s jokes is lame
People love to laugh, which is why marketers continue to generate funny content in the hopes of attracting attention to their products and services. Humor is also a great thing to include in your presentations—you set the audience at ease and make them more receptive to your message. But rehashing … [Read more...] about Why copying other people’s jokes is lame
The top 3 reasons to stop numbering your slides
Should you put numbers on your slides? It's a question that comes up again and again. But you're in luck because I have the definitive answer for you: "No." Here are three reasons why not. Reason #3: Slide numbers take up space When you use slide numbers, you create a footer area into which … [Read more...] about The top 3 reasons to stop numbering your slides
How do I know if I need a PowerPoint?
As a professional presentation designer, I love talking to people who want presentations designed. But sometimes I'll talk to a person who'd really be better off if they presented without a PowerPoint. When that happens, I turn the dollar signs off in my eyes and talk rationally about why they … [Read more...] about How do I know if I need a PowerPoint?
The only four PowerPoint keyboard shortcuts that matter
At Toastmasters the other day, I watched as one of my colleagues fumbled with the setup of her PowerPoint presentation. She struggled to get the deck in slide show mode. When she finally managed that, she lamented that she'd forgotten to include a black slide. Two simple keyboard shortcuts could've … [Read more...] about The only four PowerPoint keyboard shortcuts that matter