Advance

CHAPTER 9PRESENTING WITHOUT PANIC:Dodging Death by PowerPoint

Spiders … heights … small enclosed spaces … Everybody has fears. For most, it’s public speaking—as it is for Panicked Paul, who starts pacing back and forth as if he’s playing ping-pong, dripping with sweat. Or Scared Scarlett, who turns her back to the audience and speaks to the screen while clicking through her innumerable PowerPoint slides. Monotone Marty, Trembling Terry … You’ve probably heard and seen them all. And, truth be told, maybe they describe you: shirt soaked under your arms, gritting your teeth through technology breakdowns, and clicking your pen like you’re the Little Drummer Boy. The worst case I ever saw was someone who became so panicked he just left the podium.

Q I’ve been asked to make a presentation. I’m nervous! How do I avoid bombing?

A Think LIKE (which should be easy, since that’s what you’re aiming for).

• L → Lose the PowerPoint.

  Too many slides are a crutch—and 37 PowerPoint slides never won anybody’s heart. People want to hear you.

• I → Identify who your audience is.

  Find out what they want to know and how you can connect with them. This presentation is all about them—not you!

• K → Know your message.

  Three main points, three subpoints. List the bullet points. Have the right mix ...