Many believe that an engaging presentation opener is a result of spontaneous creativity. This is a misconception.
The key to crafting impactful presentations lies not in elusive, artistic flair, but in understanding and implementing structured communication techniques.
Creativity Is Structured: It’s about adopting proven frameworks that guide your message’s delivery. This systematic approach ensures clarity and engagement, without relying on rare bursts of inspiration.
Here’s how to harness this structured creativity for your presentations:
1. The Power of Storytelling:
Humans are wired for stories. A well-structured narrative can captivate your audience from the outset, making complex data relatable and memorable.
2. Rule of Three:
This classic writing principle – presenting ideas in trios – is a powerful tool for emphasis and rhythm. Use it to make your key points stick.
3. Problem-Solution-Benefit Format:
Begin by outlining a problem, follow with your solution, and conclude with the benefits. This logical flow guides your audience through a persuasive journey.
4. Utilizing Analogies and Metaphors:
These are great for simplifying complex concepts, making them more accessible and engaging for your audience.
5. The ‘What? So What? Now What?’ Technique:
Clearly state your point (What?), explain its relevance (So What?), and end with a call to action or implication (Now What?).
Creativity in presentations is about effectively using what’s already there to convey your message in a compelling way.
About the Author
Pamela Wigglesworth, CSP, is an international presentation performance consultant, speaker, author and founder of Experiential Hands-on Learning. She is the creator of the 5-step Persuasive Presenter framework used in her coaching work and online course.
Over the past 15+ years she has coached CEO’s, CFO’s, senior executives, and investment professionals to develop their executive presence, develop presentations that are clear, concise, and compelling and deliver their thoughts and ideas with style, confidence, and authority.