In marketing we sometimes try to capture people's attention by highlighting the benefits of using our products or services and illustrating the pitfalls of not doing so. This often works, but other times it backfires horribly. Nationwide is on your side? If you were paying attention to the ads … [Read more...] about Nationwide’s scare tactics shameful and pointless
How many slides should my presentation have?
Do these quotes sound familiar? "I only want to see three slides." "My boss says we get one slide per presenter." "We don't want to go over 20 slides for this presentation." It's very common to be restricted to a certain number of slides in a presentation. And it's a very silly way to do … [Read more...] about How many slides should my presentation have?
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!
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?
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?
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