Late last month, I recorded a podcast with Creative Boost founder Colleen Gratzer. The segment, "Punch Up Your PowerPoint Proficiency," is geared towards designers who believe that "PowerPoint is the devil!" Hating PowerPoint is like hating a hammer. Until you learn how to use any tool, it will be … [Read more...] about Punch Up Your PowerPoint Proficiency
How to fake PowerPoint’s Morph transition
As a PowerPoint professional, I keep up with the latest versions of the software with an Office 365 subscription and by being an Office Insider. It's pretty sweet, because I get to use all kinds of cool new toys that make presentations look awesome...but only on my computer. Here's how I got … [Read more...] about How to fake PowerPoint’s Morph transition
How do camp counselors communicate so well?
Just about the last place you might turn for inspiration on public speaking might be summer camp. In fact, summer camp is full of experienced speakers who engage with difficult audiences all day long. The job of a camp counselor is to guide kids through the activities at camp; to ensure that their … [Read more...] about How do camp counselors communicate so well?
When somebody plagiarizes your slides
What can you do if somebody uses your slides without your knowledge or permission? It's a valid question, considering that PowerPoint files are regularly exchanged among designers, clients, prospects, coworkers, conference organizers, attendees, etc., etc., etc. At any point the files can be … [Read more...] about When somebody plagiarizes your slides
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
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
How do I know if I need a PowerPoint?
As a professional presentation designer, I love talking to people who want presentations designed. But sometimes I'll talk to a person who'd really be better off if they presented without a PowerPoint. When that happens, I turn the dollar signs off in my eyes and talk rationally about why they … [Read more...] about How do I know if I need a PowerPoint?