Most marketing agencies ask if they should do a PowerPoint presentation for a new business pitch. (Actually, most just assume.) However, even the savviest marketers are not the best presenters.
Many don’t realize how a PowerPoint can even hurt a meeting, right from the get-go. "Calvin Client, we just need a few minutes to setup…" (Calvin's focus returns to his Blackberry.) Another 10 minutes go by. "Darned internet connectivity issues! Ah, there we are. Dim the lights.” (Calvin stifles a yawn in the darkness and under cover, returns to his email.) Ironic beginning, as the point of the meeting is to develop a connection.
PowerPoints are boring and disengaging. (Yes, even yours.) Even the best multi-taskers in the room--focused and paying attention--can find it nearly impossible to listen intently to what they're hearing, while reading the screen simultaneously. Given the choice, your audience will unconsciously ignore you so they can see what’s in front of them. Wouldn’t it be better if they were focused on you?
The only reason to do a PowerPoint is for Show and Tell. If you feel you need a new business presentation (or one was requested,) use the slides for pictures, graphs, screen shots and creative stuff. Use text sparingly and you’ll see how much better you can get your point across.
If you want to show them something let it be something they can touch, such as creative boards, a book of media coverage or a novel that has "thump" power.
An initial face-to-face meeting presents an excellent opportunity to engage and connect. Save the details for a handout, case studies or a proposal—stuff they can read after the meeting. If they’re interested in working with you, they will. And you'll have their full attention.
Shake lots of hands and use hand-outs. You'll have more power, and score more points.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment