A sales exec I know was up for a plum gig—a rotation assignment in headquarters that would groom her for a promotion to Regional Director. She was confident that she’d get the job, and went to the interview thinking that… Read More »Corporate Training: People don’t want to be sold
First of all, don’t overdo it. If it’s dry, it’s dry. I heard someone link his call to action to survival, which was a bit of an overstatement. Modesty in all things! Nevertheless, since I often find myself urging clients… Read More »Public Speaking Tips: How to be Emotional about a Dry Topic
The Wise Presenter would do well to study how people make decisions (and how you yourself make decisions.) Jonathan Lehrer is a Rhodes Scholar out of Columbia University, an editor at large for the science-focused Seed Magazine and the author… Read More »Rationality and Emotion: How we Make Decisions
How should you start preparing a presentation to senior executives? Don’t start by digging through your slide library and pulling the old standbys out. Rather, answer these questions. What is the topic or subject you are reporting on? Be clear… Read More »Presentation Preparation: Where to Start
I’ve been introduced with fanfare, and I’ve been introduced with a kind of shrug in my general direction, as if to say, “Hey Sims. You’re on.” I like fanfare, pomp and circumstance. But when it’s touting my resume and puffing… Read More »Presentation Techniques: In Praise of Informality
When scientists present, they usually start with methods, then move to findings, conclusions and perhaps recommendations. There are good reasons for this, and it can provide some drama. Yet any communication we are willing to pay for is built in… Read More »When Scientists Present