Name of the Explosive: BOMBER - B

In my previous article you looked at how to leave a first, lasting impression in the minds of your audience. Today, let’s look at the overall strategy to deliver a classic, super successful presentation.

  

“He exploded the dance floor” is what we hear in parties about a great dancer who captured everyone’s attention. Now’s the time for you to explode in the presentation room. Drop the explosive called BOMBER – B and see the effect!

 

But, even before this explosive, remember the most critical part of a presentation – if you have been given 2 hours for your delivery, prepare only for 1.5 hrs. There may be questions that you have to answer; otherwise, there may be some topic during the delivery that may lead to a longer discussion.

  

BOMBER – B is described as you continue reading this page.

 

B – Bang: Always start your presentation with an attention seeking ‘hook’, as we discussed in my previous article. (Read it for more details)

 

O – Opening: Once you have commenced the program, the opening, regarding the key essence of the presentation should be shared immediately. Do not drag the main points to be covered throughout the session. It is always good to outline the top 5 discussion items and place them in bullets for easy comprehension. 

M – Message: No matter how long a presentation, the audience WILL NOT take back more than 4 – 5 key points with them as learning. Revolve your entire presentation around these pointers.

 

B – Bridge: Bridge the gap between each key message and the participants experience and needs. You need to link every point to “what’s in it for them”; else, don’t be surprised if your audience starts playing with their phone or passing sly remarks or keeps looking at their watch time and again, etc…

 

E – Examples: Share loads of examples to put your point across effectively. Make your participants visualize what you are saying. The more the examples, the better; but remember to not overdo it, else, you will lose the essence of the presentation. Examples also enable you to connect well with your listeners. Customize them according to the crowd. A simple example here, would be something like if you have more young men as your listeners, give more examples linking the presentation to say, cricket or cars and bikes, etc… With more women, cooking examples are the safest bet. Believe me; you can link ALL your presentations to some or the personal connection.

 

R – Recap: Be sure to summarize you’re your 2 hours presentation in 10 minutes before concluding the session. It is critical to check the audience’s understanding of these 2 hours, by asking them to summarize, before you do. This also gives you an opportunity to repeat anything that has not been comprehended the way it should have.

 

B – Bang: The closing of your presentation is as crucial as the opening. You may use the same gimmicks to close the presentation as you would to open. Just keep in mind that when your audience leaves from the room, they should either:

• have some food for thought, or
• have some action items to work upon, or
• be totally charged-up to achieve (say) the future target, etc…

Usage of this explosive, will give you a clear understanding on how you wish to carry your presentation forward. It will also help you plan better.

 

Failing to plan leads to planning to fail. Make a choice!