Having too much stuff on a slide all at once can be frustrating for the audience. They have to divide their attention between the slide and the presenter, a needless distraction. If you're guilty of putting too much on a slide, maybe it's because you think animation is difficult or too time … [Read more...] about The easiest way to animate PowerPoint slides
Do your pictures speak the RIGHT thousand words?
You've probably heard that "a picture speaks a thousand words." This means that rather than spend time trying to describe something, you can communicate more quickly and efficiently with an image. This instant communication occurs whether you want it to or not, so choosing the right images for your … [Read more...] about Do your pictures speak the RIGHT thousand words?
How to fix a boring presentation
Do boring presenters set out to be that way? Do they wake up in the morning and say to themselves, "Gee, I hope I can get someone in the room to fall asleep during my presentation today!" or "I want to over-complicate my presentation so the investors don't know whether or not to fund me." Of course … [Read more...] about How to fix a boring presentation
Smart public speakers show up early
Today I am teaching a group of people how to create dynamic PowerPoint presentations. So I arrived at my client's office at 8:15 and went to the conference room to set up. With the help of the IT guy, I made sure that my Macbook would play nicely with the projector. I set handouts and business cards … [Read more...] about Smart public speakers show up early
Hate PowerPoint? Ditch the slides.
Today I persuaded someone not to hire me. And it didn't bother me one bit, because I knew I was doing him a favor. Sometimes we're asked to communicate in ways in which we're not comfortable. When that happens, people can tell you're not at your best. In the case of my client, maybe he really … [Read more...] about Hate PowerPoint? Ditch the 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
The best way to make a PowerPoint? You have 5 jobs.
I'll bet you thought you only had one job! But if you want to design an effective presentation, you actually have five jobs as a presenter: writer, editor, graphic designer, teacher, and audience member. Don't focus on one job. You need all five. Designing a presentation from scratch can be a … [Read more...] about The best way to make a PowerPoint? You have 5 jobs.