One of my favorite stories growing up was “Cheese, Peas and Chocolate Pudding.” I remember the story of the little boy who wouldn’t eat anything but cheese, peas and chocolate pudding. I haven’t read that book in 35 years. Why do I still remember the title, specifics and purpose? Good stories have…

FLOW

Presenting your ideas should be shared with similar style. In his book Presenting to Win, author Jerry Weissman lists possible flows for presenters: chronological, compare and contrast, problem and solution, features and benefits and case studies are just a few. Which one is right for you? Just pick one. It’s more important to pick one than it is worry about which exact one you choose.

How does this help your audience?

  1. Retention – Think Gettysburg Address. Don’t just throw random fact and figures. Give organization to your story, and your audience will remember what you said.
  2. Understanding – Think digestion. Food that is broken in to parts is easier to digest. When your presentation has flow, people understand it (hint: that’s a GREAT thing).
  3. Creation – Think of yourself. When you are developing your presentation, it’s easier FOR YOU to create one that flows from point to point.

Give your presentation the flow of your favorite childhood story. Your audience will thank you for it.

Scientifically Speaking, of course.

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