I have a pet hate, which I see depressingly often at the start of a presentation.
So I write this blog as a public service, to save anyone else from falling into the trap.
(As you know, I'm kind like that!)
I was judging a series of talks last week, and a couple of people committed this cringeworthy crime.
I used to wonder if it was just me that loathed it.
But I looked around at the other judges, and the audience, and saw many people shaking their heads…
As well as looking to their friends and colleagues, and whispering to them…
In a far from complimentary manner.
So now you’ve had the big build up, you’re obviously desperate to know…
What is this heinous sin?
The answer is telling rather than showing.
(No, that’s not a random picture. It’s there for a reason. Can you guess what? The answer… later.)
Anyway, back to the blog, and and you’ve probably heard the expression Show not tell.
It’s most commonly used in writing.
I could, for example, tell you that Bill is in a foul mood, so you’d better avoid him.
Or I could show you, by saying:
Bill has just had a stand-up row, he’s stalking round the office kicking rubbish bins and punching walls, so my advice is best avoided.
Which has the more impact?
Telling you, or showing you?
Incidentally, it's also the reason testimonials are so important.
People can tell you how great they are (and many do, wouldn't you say?)
But only when they show you, do you really believe it.
Which brings me to the show not tell sin of public speaking.
The errant presenters began by saying something like:
- You're going to love this presentation. It’s full of fun, remarkable news, and you’re going to remember it for a long time.
Cue the rolling of eyes, the shaking of heads, and the planting of faces into palms from the audience.
Beginnings like that, which are full of hype, and yearning to impress...
Instead simply come across as hollow and desperate.
Better by far to just get straight into your story and leave the audience to decide for themselves whether they're going to be entertained, educated, and entranced.
Here endeth this public service announcement!
By the way, do you have any pet hates in presentations?
If so, please let me know in the comments. I’d be interested to hear.
(It’ll also help me avoid them the next time I’m giving a talk.)
And finally, that photo:
It’s William Tell.
Who, of course, after reading this blog…
Has changed his name to William Show!
