|
 Q Is
it ok to use PowerPoint when I’m giving presentations?
A Presenters from salespeople to CEOs have embraced PowerPoint, but they're using
it incorrectly and undermining their messages. Here are some tips for effective presentations:
Use PowerPoint images, not text. The mind stores and retrieves pictures better than
words. So if, for example, you are a financial planner talking about retirement, don’t post dry bulleted
points stating 57% of retirees must continue working to maintain their lifestyles — and then parrot the words
on the screen. Instead, display an image of a senior citizen serving fast food with the figure 57% emblazoned
on his apron.
Don’t rely on a handout. This draws attention away from you and directs it toward a piece
of paper. If your audience insists on having something to follow, print full-page versions of your image
slides. Images need a presenter to fill in the details and as a result, your audience will listen that much
harder while you speak.
Use strategic hand gestures. Indicate size (“small” costs or “huge” margins) or action
(sales will “skyrocket” or we’ll “check off” results). Viewers find it hard to turn away from the action.
Increase your volume. Speaking loudly creates instant enthusiasm; you’re also more likely
to display body language that communicates gusto. A microphone, however, does nothing to build enthusiasm so,
unless you’re in a large room speaking to 40 or 50 people, don’t use one.
Paul LeRoux, president of Chicago-based Twain Associates (
www.twainassociates.com), is author of Visual Selling: Capture the Eye and the Customer Will Follow
|
