PowerPoint can be an excellent tool for presenters, but it can be a big distraction when things don’t go as planned. How well you prepare ahead of time and how you react to the inevitable technical glitches can mean the difference between being seen as a seasoned presenter and an inexperienced … [Read more...] about Five ways to avoid presentation glitches
Watch those pop culture references
Have you ever made a reference to popular culture in conversation only to have it land solidly on the floor with a dull thud? If you have kids, you know exactly what I'm talking about. (You: "Good night, John-Boy!" Your kid: "Who's John-Boy?") You might also have experienced this when talking to a … [Read more...] about Watch those pop culture references
Exclusive offer, but not for you
Creating a sense of exclusivity can be a very effective marketing tactic. Check out this copy from luxury goods providers Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Singapore Airlines, and Mikimoto: "Bespoke is Rolls-Royce" "Our Singapore Airlines Suites…provide the distinguished few with their very own haven of … [Read more...] about Exclusive offer, but not for you
What happens when you assume?
"As I'm sure you're all aware…" "We all know that…" "Is there anybody in the world who doesn't like…" If you attend live presentations such as meetings, conferences, and lectures, maybe you've heard one of these lead-in phrases. If you haven't, congratulations! You've been spared the shame … [Read more...] about What happens when you assume?
Don’t read your PowerPoint slides!
Sometimes you need to do a presentation for which you aren't fully prepared. Maybe you didn't get your act together, or maybe the presenter duties were thrust upon you at the last minute. Whatever the circumstances, there are usually two ways a presentation like this can go. If you're an experienced … [Read more...] about Don’t read your PowerPoint slides!
Marketing 101: Promotions work best when they’re promoted
Social media promotions can be a lot of fun, especially when you can see the results in real time. And a great way to get people excited about the promotion is to make it a game. I recently encountered a photo-tagging promotion at a large sporting event, but when I asked about it I was essentially … [Read more...] about Marketing 101: Promotions work best when they’re promoted
Marketing 101: Fish where the fish are
Recently, I encountered such an outrageously bad marketing tactic, contrasted with a fantastic marketing tactic, that I wanted to share it with you. No, there's nothing about PowerPoint in this article, but I thought it was important enough to share with you. What is up with this kiosk? I was in … [Read more...] about Marketing 101: Fish where the fish are
How do you deal with a bad co-presenter?
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?