“A Presentation Isn’t Always the Right Way to Communicate” by Nancy Duarte.

Thu 27 March 2014

Consider the Goal Before Giving a Presentation

We rarely think about whether presentations are the best way to express our ideas; we just blindly create and deliver them.

 But sometimes, or often,  a conversation is much more appropriate and effective ! 

 How do you know when that’s the case?

 Ask yourself what needs to be accomplished in the time you have with the group ! 

 Do you need to simultaneously inform, entertain, and persuade your audience to adopt a line of thinking or to take action?

 Or do you need to gather more information, have a discussion, and drive the group toward consensus on a goal? 

Generally, if your idea would be best served by more interaction with your audience, you should probably encourage discussion rather than deliver a presentation.

Adapted from “A Presentation Isn’t Always the Right Way to Communicate” by Nancy Duarte.