Presentation slides that make audiences sit up instead of switch off
AUTHOR: Lolly
How to present so people will actually care
You are not the hero of your presentation story.
So, who is?
tips for stories people care about
you may be the one on stage, but the spotlight is on your audience.
If you can quiet your ego long enough to get through the next 327 words, we may make a success of you yet.
You are not the hero of your story. You are not the main character. You are not Beyoncé. You’re not even Michelle. You’re Bey’s mom. You’re Yoda. Obi-Wan. Gandalf. No, you don’t need questionable facial hair. You need to be the guide. Stop talking about your achievements. Your products. Your successes. Your audience does not care.
focus on your audience's needs, not your ego
All they want to know is what you can do for them. Start your presentation with their problem, not your solution. Show them that you get it. You understand the challenge they’re facing, the frustration they’re dealing with, the pain they’re enduring. But don’t dwell here too long—they fucking know alright? It’s all they think about.
You—as the guide—need to show empathy and expertise. There, there—it’s okay. It’s nothing I’ve not seen before. I know the way forward.
That sorta vibe.
empathy and authority are key if you're to be a guide
The empathy part is easy—you’ve done that by acknowledging their challenges. The authority and expertise can be more challenging. Try not to roll off your CV; you know how it thrills people. Even putting up a logo wall of your clients and talking about how you saved them is giving hero complex. Instead, tell their stories. Point out the similarities and lean in on the bright today—with your products and services subtly helping them along.
put your audience in the spotlight
Then make it clear what their individual narrative arc could look like. Use language that puts them in the centre of everything. Show them how they could have everything they ever wanted, with just one small change. And remember, no one actually wants more money. They want the freedom or power or status money brings. No one wants a task taken off their plate. They want the extra time to spend with their family. No one wants a promotion. They want glory, envy, exclusivity.
understand what your audience really desires
And let them know how you can help them get it.
still speaking ego first?
video
Reading is tough. Rest your weary eyes on this moving picture instead.
Slides that make audiences sit up instead of switch off.
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