We go to the doctor for annual health check-ups, so, why not take a few minutes for an annual presentation check-up as well?  It is reassuring to hear the doctor confirm that we are okay in most areas, but it is also really important to learn where we may be at risk for future problems. The same is true in presentations. You are likely doing a reasonable job in most areas, but if there are any weaknesses, you want to deal with them now before they lead to serious negative consequences — lost business, delayed decisions, and missed opportunities.

With that in mind, use the answers to these questions to identify what, if anything, you need to remedy in your presentations to ensure you are engaging in the strongest way possible with your listeners. Pat yourself on the back for all the “Yes” responses and work on the areas with the “No” responses.

Check Yourself

Y  N  1. I always know my audience’s objective–and mine.

Y  N  2. My presentations always engage immediately.

Y  N  3. My messages are so clear that a 12 year old or my grandmother could repeat them.

Y  N  4. I know how to make all my supporting information relevant, persuasive and interesting so that people stay off their cell phones.

Y  N  5. I never get lost “in the weeds.”

Y  N  6. My visuals are always clear, vivid, and appealing to listeners. 

Y N  7. I know at least 7 ways to involve my audience whether I am talking to one person or to a large group.

Y  N  8. My presentations always flow to compelling conclusions that result in action from listeners.

Y  N  9. I can handle any and all questions calmly.

Y N  10. I know how to “command any room.”

How’s Your Presentation Health?

10 Yeses?  You are the picture of excellent presentation health! The future is yours!

8-9 Yeses? Definitely hale and hearty.  You get results most of the time.

6-7 Yeses? You are getting borderline. Need to get some medicine (coaching, training)

1-5 Yeses? You are on life support!  Get some help ASAP. (coaching, training)

To your  (presentation) “health!”

Anne Miller

Words Matter — Make What You Say Pay!

Make Sure Your Presentations are Healthy Winners!

Call today for individual coaching or team workshops and learn how to turn information that tells into a story that sells. 212-876-1875 amiller@annemiller.com  

“Anne and I recently worked together on a speech I gave at a large conference. She helped me turn a series of somewhat interesting points into an expertly crafted, compelling and actionable story. Together, we built a storyline with attention-grabbing headlines. We worked and re-worked the language, making sure every word was important. Finally, Anne coached me on the delivery. The result was so exciting – I’ve never been so well received in a speech before. Thank you, Anne!” Kate Griffin, Vice President, CFED.org