People often ask me about a good way to begin a presentation.
There are a number of good ways to begin a presentation.
After all, smokers like matches that light with the first strike, and audiences like presentations that ignite their interest from the start.
So, I suggest that you jump right in! Start with the pitch–don’t start with the windup.
Churchill famously said that opening formalities are opening amenities. In other words, get rid of that upfront stuff and get into the meat of the matter.
We all know that Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg did not start his speech by saying, “I’d like to say a few words about his terrible battle that just occurred here…”
No, instead he rolled out an amazing sentence that described eighty-seven years of American history–history that Americans cherished.
Of course, we all know the phrase that begins that sentence. It’s four score and seven years ago.
Here is a less grand example. A client of mine was speaking to a group of food industry experts.
He started his speech by saying, “There’s a storm brewing in the ketchup aisle!”
Then, he went on to describe how foreign condiments were coming in and eroding the market share of Heinz 57, etc.
As an opener, it was a fun, interesting, and memorable.
He had their interest from the start!
How can we help?
If you would like help with a presentation, or if your team needs to get better at being understood, remembered, and believed, give us a call. Sims Wyeth & Co. helps our clients with workshops, coaching, and message development. We have experience with scientific and technical presenters, financial firms, and other service industries. Also, if you find this video helpful, please be sure to share it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter.