CyberNirvana

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Make a Presentation Like Al Gore and other tips (2)

9:00 AM by Zia , under , ,

I am obsessed with good presentation skills. I made a presentation last May and I was frankly rubbish. After 18 years of professional work, that's simply not acceptable. Let's hope I can find comfort in these useful tips...

I also found two useful slideshare clips: How to use visual effects in Powerpoint and Death by Powerpoint.



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2 Reply to "Make a Presentation Like Al Gore and other tips"

Frank (Francesco) S. Adamo on 14 July 2008 16:06

"After 18 years of professional work" caught my eye. You might want to check my article I wrote for Technical Professionals at http://ezinearticles.com/?id=1265700.

The two slideshare clips you suggested are fine, but I really like Don McMillan's video "How NOT To Use Powerpoint" at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLpjrHzgSRM

It is so entertaining, but at the same time, right on.

A couple of more things. When doing a presentation, focus on the message you want to leave the audience and I often suggest that when preparing for your presentation, start with the conclusion first and work backward. Most presenters will start with the opening, add the body and then conclude with the "conclusion." When you do that, you may not end up with the purpose and message for your presentation.

By starting with the conclusion first, you can then fill in all the "pertinent" data, information, etc. into the body. Then end the preparation with a powerful opening. If you start at the beginning and end with the conclusion, you will more likely have unnecessary information in your body.

Next, technical professionals (non-technical professionals also) are generally very knowledgeable in the field of expertise because they have studied and worked in that field for many years. Most professionals have not studied communications and presentation skills for years.

My suggestion to become very knowledgeable in communication (presentation) skills is to join Toastmasters (www.toastmasters.org). Not only will a member improve their communications skills, but we have a leadership track. Toastmasters has changed lives. I know, it's has changed my life.

Frank

P.S. It might be helpful to purchase my book [G]. At least read my article.

 

Zia on 15 July 2008 22:07

Hey Frank

Thanks for the tips!