Tag: Presentations

5 PowerPoint Pitch Deck Tips For SEO-Friendly Slides

online presentations

pitch deck

Powerpoint

powerpoint slides

Presentations

SEO

slideshare

Jan 29, 2015

There are plenty of great benefits in creating a solid content marketing strategy.As we’ve discussed before, we found that it’s an easy way to connect and engage with consumers. By sharing content that is relevant to them, you help them create an emotional connection with your brand.[sg-blog-modules module=one]Of course, gaining leads through this method isn’t always easy. Sure, sharing your PowerPoint slides on the Internet does introduce your brand to a wider audience. The problem is that it might take them a while to find your content, even if you’ve created slides that are relevant and useful for them.To nudge these potential consumers in your direction, let your slides stand out. The way to do that is by making your PowerPoint and pitch deck presentations SEO-friendly.BrightEdge CEO Jim Yu stresses that unlike its earlier stages, SEO content no longer means stuffing your work with random keywords, but incorporating them into meaningful and well-researched content.So how can you optimize your PowerPoint’s searchability? Follow our five tips:

Optimize your title slide

The title slide is an important part of your presentation, especially if you’re sharing it online. It’s the first thing that people will see when they’re browsing and come across your PowerPoint deck on SlideShare or any other site.It’s also the title slide that will help them decide if your content is relevant to their interests. As such, optimize your title slide.Take the time to craft the perfect title for your presentation, which needs to contain the keyword you’re optimizing for. The keyword should flow naturally with the single phrase you come up with.Also have visuals that match your creative and SEO-friendly title. While the keyword helps search engines decide that your content is a match, it’s the visuals that will capture your target audience’s attention.

Use long tail keywords in the content

Using keywords shouldn’t stop at the title slide. The long tail keywords you choose should also be incorporated to the content of your slides.For SEO beginners, that means you should incorporate keywords that are quite specific to the topic you’re discussing and optimizing for. This way, your content doesn’t get buried under millions of results for a general search term.HubSpot contributor, Corey Wainwright, explains the use of long tail keywords. Such keywords flow naturally with the rest of your writing. Doing otherwise might end up alienating your audience.

Provide an accurate description

Aside from content, you also have to provide an accurate and thought-provoking meta description of your presentation.Focus on the core message of your presentation and make sure that stands out in what you write.A good description isn’t too long. A few, quick sentences will do. This will serve as the space where you can include information about your company, like links to your website and social media profiles.

Carefully tag your pitch deck presentation

Another crucial step to SEO-friendly slides are the tags. Sites like SlideShare allows up to 20 for your presentation.Tags are keywords that will make it easier to categorize and find your content. Make sure you use those that are relevant to your content and your brand.Tagging random keywords might damage you in the long run by marking you as spam. Always relate your tags to what your presentation is actually about.

Share presentation on social media

Finally, it’s time to share your presentation on social media platforms. When you upload your PowerPoint deck, you don’t have to sit around and wait for the audience to appear.Do the heavy lifting and take your presentation to them. Share links to your newly-uploaded PowerPoint pitch deck presentation on your social media profiles. This will give your followers a heads up.In turn, they can share it on their own profiles or websites. Search engines prioritize results that have plenty of back links. The more you share your pitch deck presentation, the larger your reach will become.–Sharing your presentations online can help you reach out to a wider audience. Do it right by making sure your PowerPoint slides have SEO advantage. Take note of these tips and do your best to connect and engage with consumers through the large world of the Internet.[sg-blog-modules module=two]

References:

“Content Marketing Lesson: Presentations Create More Impact.” SlideGenius, Inc. July 13, 2014. Accessed January 29, 2015.Wainwright, Corey. “The Ultimate Guide for Mastering Long Tail Search” HubSpot. Accessed January 29, 2015.”Perfecting Your Presentation Title Slide.” SlideGenius, Inc.. October 16, 2014. Accessed January 29, 2015.Yu, Jim. “5 Steps To An Integrated Approach To SEO-Friendly Content Marketing.” Marketing Land. March 11, 2014. Accessed January 29, 2015. Featured Image: Picjumbo.com

Sales Presentation Tips: How to Leave Your Clients Inspired

presentation tips

Presentations

sales pitch

sales presentation

Jan 26, 2015

A sales presentation is the proverbial last mile. The opportunity to come face-to-face with a prospect is your last bet to make sure the sales process goes in your favor. Because of this, the stakes are high and there’s a lot of pressure to perform. It’s not enough that you’ve made sure to present your product or service in the best light. You also need a good story to share.[sg-blog-modules module=three]Salespeople tend to focus on the particulars of what they’re offering. While it’s important to introduce the details of your product or service, it’s also important to answer a crucial question. As TED speaker Simon Sinek puts it, “people don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.”Following this line of thinking, here are a few ways to make sure your story stands out and leaves prospects inspired:

Follow a compelling structure

Do without the blatant matter-of-fact way tone sales presentations typically have. This traditional technique doesn’t particularly inspire prospects to engage with you.If you want to add an edge to your own sales pitch, follow the dramatic arc of ancient Greek plays. Scientific research has proven that narratives following this specific structure can trigger powerful emotional responses. This is exactly what you need if you’re looking to create a stronger connection between you and your audience.

Identify the challenges your prospect is facing

The conflict is perhaps the most important part of a story. In a movie, this is the point where all the tension and suspense start to build up. While you’re not looking to scare people off their seats, it’s important to create a similar feeling in your presentation.Build a rapport by identifying the challenges that your prospects want to solve. Let them see that you’re aware of their current situation and you understand where they’re coming from. Describe to them a scenario that addresses the challenges they face to make your pitch more relatable.

Detail a solution particular to their issues

Obviously, it isn’t enough that you identify the problems your prospects want to solve. Challenges need to be solved. If you really want to leave them inspired, balance your story out by offering your own solution.This is the part where you can bring out the details of your product or service. Delve into the features that are particularly helpful for the challenges you just presented. Make sure these solutions are specific to give your sales presentation a more personalized feeling.

Urge audience to action with a definitive statement

When you finish covering all the important points, don’t forget to end your sales presentation with a bang. Urge the audience one last time by providing them a Call to Action statement that’s simple and straight to the point.Summarize the purpose of your pitch in one bold statement that will get prospects to commit. This final, definitive statement is your last chance to make sure the audience doesn’t forget your story and message, so make it memorable and convincing.

Make sure the visuals highlight your brand

All these tips could fall flat if you don’t have visuals that help highlight and elevate your story. Part of that story is making sure your brand is well-represented.By creating a PowerPoint deck that mirrors your brand, you can make sure that your sales presentation is more distinguishable and unique. Best of all, it also helps remind your audience that you’re the best choice from a range of competitors.The best way to go about this is by incorporating your logo in the colors you use. Take a look at these sample slides for more inspiration.–A sales presentation doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Following the right techniques, it can be an easy sprint to the finish line. Follow these tips to make sure you leave prospect clients inspired and ready to get on board.[sg-blog-modules module=two]

Reference

“End Your Presentation with a Call to Action Slide.” SlideGenius, Inc. July 14, 2014. Accessed January 26, 2015.How great leaders inspire action. Simon Sinek. TED, 2009.”The Science of Effective Storytelling in Presentations.” SlideGenius, Inc. September 28, 2014. Accessed January 26, 2015.Featured Image: PicJumbo.com

The Art of Props: Why Your Presentation Might Need It

presentation tips

Presentations

props

Jan 12, 2015

When we think of props, we often remember scenes from our 6th-grade science class. We don’t usually associate the use of props in professional presentations.However, as Bill Gates demonstrated in his memorable TED Talk on ‘Mosquitoes, malaria, and education‘, props offer an easy way to demonstrate concepts that might be hard to explain. Sometimes, it’s not enough to project an image on the screen. The audience needs to see things first hand in order to understand the weight and impact of what you’re trying to share.In his speech, Gates conveys a sense of urgency that might not have been as apparent to the audience. To get his point across, he released mosquitoes he kept in a jar. He wanted the audience to at least have a closer look at what hundreds of communities experience in the developing world.

As demonstrated by this TED Talk, if you can find the perfect prop that could elevate your core message, you’ll be able to turn conceptual ideas into concrete and observable objects.The audience can see exactly what you’re trying to point out and connect with it right away. This also makes your presentation far more memorable. Because you decided to show them something that isn’t usually part of professional presentations, props can only help you stand out even more.

How do you find the perfect prop? 

Now that we’ve covered why your presentations need to utilize props, it’s time to learn more about making the most of this tool.First, you need to consider what kind of prop works well with your presentation. According to Andrew Dlugan of Six Minutes, these are questions to ask yourself when choosing the perfect prop:

  • How is your prop relevant to the topic? – Obviously, it’s important that your props will illuminate the points in your presentation. Choose objects that are directly related to your presentation, or something that symbolizes your points and work as a metaphor.
  • Can everyone see the prop from where they’re seated? – Aside from its significance in your presentation, the props you use should also be large enough for everyone in the audience to see. However, it shouldn’t be too large that you can’t manipulate it with ease.
  • Will it add value to your presentation? – Lastly, it’s also important that props help give a detailed explanation of your points. Like Bill Gates’ mosquitoes in a jar, props should illuminate your message.

Taking your props to stage 

Having carefully chosen the props you want to use, it’s time to learn how you can best wield them for maximum result.Always plan how the prop will play into your presentation. Your props will need to come out during significant points in your delivery.Demonstrating a prop can help capture the attention of your audience. Better yet, you can use a prop to illustrate some key points and add further interest in your discussion. Whatever you decide, it’s important to plan when and how you’ll use them.Part of your planning should include where you’ll position the prop for the audience to see. As mentioned earlier, everyone in the audience must be able to see your demonstration.Aside from making sure that your prop is large enough for everyone to see, you also need to make sure it’s placed in the right spot. If you can examine the venue before your presentation, try to take note of where your props might be able to attract the most eyes.

Conclusion

With all the planning done, make sure that everything runs smoothly. If you want to transition smoothly from discussing slides to demonstrating how a prop works, familiarize yourself with rehearsals. Don’t just practice your speech and movements. Incorporate your props into it as well.Once in front of the audience, show them your prop’s significance. As you work through your demonstration, explain how it helps your message become more concrete. Let them see how tangible your ideas can be. 

Reference

“How to Create a STAR Moment for Your Presentations.” SlideGenius, Inc.. September 25, 2014. Accessed January 12, 2015.”How to Choose and Use Speech Props: A Speaker’s Guide.” Six Minutes. August 21, 2013. Accessed January 12, 2015.”Improve Your Presentations with the Power of the Metaphor.” SlideGenius, Inc.. November 17, 2014. Accessed January 12, 2015.Mosquitos, malaria and education. Bill Gates. TED, 2009. Featured Image: C x 2 via Flickr

Listen Here: 5 Podcasts for the Busy Professional

Marketing

marketing resources

podcasts

presentation resources

Presentations

Jan 06, 2015

As a busy professional, staying on top of industry trends, productivity hacks, and career development can be a challenge. Podcasts offer an easy way to absorb valuable information while on the go. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or taking a break, these five podcasts will provide you with insights, strategies, and inspiration to excel in your professional life.

1. “The Tim Ferriss Show”

Tim Ferriss, author of “The 4-Hour Workweek,” hosts interviews with top performers from a variety of fields, including business, sports, and entertainment. Each episode is packed with actionable strategies for improving productivity, mindset, and career growth.Why You Should Listen:

  • Actionable Advice: Tim Ferriss dives deep into the routines, strategies, and habits of world-class performers.
  • Diverse Guest List: Learn from a wide range of professionals, from entrepreneurs to athletes.

Recommended Episode: “How to Build an Empire with Sara Blakely” – Learn from the founder of Spanx about resilience, creativity, and business strategy.

2. “The Tony Robbins Podcast”

Tony Robbins, one of the world’s leading business strategists and motivational speakers, shares insights on leadership, personal development, and financial freedom. The podcast features interviews with industry leaders and covers topics like mastering emotions, scaling a business, and achieving life balance.Why You Should Listen:

  • Motivational Insights: Robbins delivers powerful advice on how to lead effectively and live a fulfilled life.
  • Business Strategies: Get practical tips on scaling businesses and achieving professional success.

Recommended Episode: “Master the Mindset of Achievement” – Tony Robbins discusses strategies for overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals.

3. “HBR IdeaCast”

Produced by Harvard Business Review, HBR IdeaCast offers insights from experts on leadership, strategy, management, and innovation. The podcast covers a wide range of topics relevant to professionals looking to advance their careers or grow their businesses.Why You Should Listen:

  • Expert Perspectives: Interviews with business leaders and researchers provide cutting-edge insights on management and innovation.
  • Diverse Topics: Covers everything from leading remote teams to the future of work.

Recommended Episode: “Why Empathy is Key to Better Leadership” – Learn how empathy can transform workplace relationships and improve leadership effectiveness.

4. “The School of Greatness” with Lewis Howes

Hosted by former pro athlete turned entrepreneur Lewis Howes, this podcast offers inspiring interviews with some of the world’s most successful individuals, including entrepreneurs, athletes, and thought leaders. The podcast focuses on achieving greatness in all areas of life, from career to personal development.Why You Should Listen:

  • Inspiration for Personal Growth: Howes shares stories of overcoming adversity and achieving success.
  • Wide Range of Guests: From athletes to entrepreneurs, guests offer unique perspectives on what it takes to succeed.

Recommended Episode: “How to Master Public Speaking with Grant Baldwin” – Learn how to improve your public speaking skills and boost your confidence.

5. “The Daily Stoic”

If you’re looking for daily inspiration and practical advice, The Daily Stoic is the perfect podcast for professionals. Hosted by Ryan Holiday, author of “The Obstacle is the Way,” the podcast explores the teachings of Stoicism and how they can be applied to modern life, especially in business and leadership.Why You Should Listen:

  • Short, Digestible Episodes: Perfect for busy professionals, each episode is brief but packed with wisdom.
  • Timeless Philosophy: Learn how ancient Stoic principles can help you navigate the challenges of modern life.

Recommended Episode: “Why Discipline is More Important Than Motivation” – A short but powerful reminder of the importance of self-discipline in achieving success.

Final Thoughts

Podcasts are a convenient way to stay informed and inspired while juggling a busy schedule. Whether you’re looking for leadership advice, productivity hacks, or personal development tips, these five podcasts will provide valuable insights to help you succeed in your professional life.

The End: Tips for Concluding Presentations

concluding your presentations

presentation tips

Presentations

Oct 24, 2014

In movies, beginnings are spent introducing the lead character. During this time, viewers get to connect with the story as it starts to unfold.In the same way, the beginning of a presentation allows the audience to make an initial connection. A powerful beginning can hook an audience, urging them to ask more questions about the topic at hand.Despite this, beginnings can’t fully account for the outcome of your presentation. There’s more to a successful outcome than an eye-catching title slide and a humorous icebreaker. Presentations also need to end on a distinct and powerful note. You can’t just thank the audience and be done with it. Your conclusion should ring true long after the audience leaves the venue.[sg-blog-modules module=one]In other words, endings should create as much impact as beginnings do. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when concluding presentations:

Reiterate your main points

After a lengthy discussion, offer a refresher by reviewing the most important points of your discussion. Repeat all your main points using short and quick sentences. Don’t try to explain everything again. Just echo all the sound bites you’ve been repeating throughout your presentation. For full effect, you can make a list and display it on a slide.

Resolve the story

We’ve made a strong case for storytelling in the past. Stories can improve your presentations by allowing your audience to connect with the message you’re delivering.Following your narrative structure, close your presentation by discussing the resolution of your story. Show the audience how the conflict you introduced is eventually worked out and put to rest.

Challenge the audience

It’s important to pose a challenge to your audience. Leave them with a thought-provoking question that will encourage them to reflect on what you’ve shared. If you do it right, your challenging questions will help keep discussions about your presentation alive.

Offer a concrete Call to Action statement

Similarly, you can also end with a Call to Action statement. Give your audience a concrete plan to consider and execute. While the previous method might work for seminars and lectures, a Call to Action statement leaves no room for doubt. If you’re pitching to investors or proposing a new project to executives, you want to make sure that your message is received loud and clear. A Call to Action statement will definitely help with that.–Much like beginnings, endings hold a lot of weight. For presentations, a strong conclusion will ensure that your message sticks with the audience. Keep these tips in mind when concluding presentations and get your intended outcome.[sg-blog-modules module=two]Featured Image: Andrew Hurley via Flickr

Body Language: Signify Intent with Movement

body language

presentation delivery

presentation tips

Presentations

Oct 21, 2014

Nonverbal cues are just as important as the slides you’re presenting. The way you stand and move across the stage can have significant impact on the message you’re delivering. Improve your presentations and increase your influence by learning more about the art of body language.

Body language is a powerful weapon

In a previous blog post, we discussed how body language plays an important role in forming positive impressions. Your first few seconds on stage is particularly crucial. In that short span of time, the audience can gather enough information to form their own opinions about you. As Mark Bowden, author of Winning Body Language, points out,

“In the first few seconds of meeting someone, they will determine whether you are friend or predator, and the rest of the time their brains will be gathering information to support that.”

A recent study conducted by Dr. Alex Pentland takes this one step further. As quoted by Susanne Garguilo of CNN, research concludes that “body language can predict the outcome of interactions such as job interviews, dating, negotiations, etc., with an average accuracy of 80%.”

As such, we can’t possibly ignore the power body language has to significantly improve presentation delivery. If you want to connect with the audience, you need to show them that you’re trustworthy and reliable. You need to form a presence that commands their attention.

How body language adds to your presentation

Contrary to popular belief, body language isn’t similar to the way we express ourselves through speech. A certain movement doesn’t necessarily correspond to a specific word or feeling. There’s no such thing as a body language handbook or dictionary that will help you crack the hidden meaning behind particular gestures. As Forbes contributor Nick Morgan writes,

“Gestures are ambiguous. They can mean many things. If I cross my arms, I may be signaling my defensiveness, but I may also be cold, or simply tired and propping myself up with my arms – or just getting comfortable. And I could be signaling all those things at once. It’s possible to be simultaneously cold, tired, defensive, and desirous of comfort.”

When we’re unconscious of our movements, body language is pretty good at signifying our emotional intent.

“…research shows that whatever we’re feeling first shows up in our body, and only later (nanoseconds later) in our conscious minds. So, if we’re hungry, or impatient, or angry, or happy, our bodies know first, and they will pretty reliably signal those feelings. Learning to read body language, then, is a matter of learning to understand other people’s intents, not their specific conscious thoughts.”

If this is the case, how does body language add to presentation delivery? It works by highlighting the points and arguments you’re making. In other words, conscious adjustment of your posture, gestures, and expression will emphasize and underscore whatever your saying.–In this way, body language allows you to add an emotional dimension to your presentations. Even if your good posture doesn’t necessarily correspond to a specific meaning, it nonetheless shows the audience something positive and welcoming.Allow body language to add intent and dimension to your presentation by reading more tips:

[sg-blog-modules module=two]Featured Image: -5m via Flickr

The Creative Process: 4 Steps to Presentation Success

creative process

creativity

presentation preparation

presentation tips

Presentations

Oct 15, 2014

Creating a compelling presentation is both an art and a science. Whether you’re pitching a new idea, delivering a keynote, or simply sharing information, the creative process behind a successful presentation can be broken down into four essential steps. These steps will help you craft a narrative that captivates your audience and delivers your message effectively.**Step 1: Ideation**The first step in the creative process is ideation. This is where you brainstorm and generate ideas for your presentation. Start by identifying the core message you want to convey. What is the main takeaway for your audience? Once you have a clear understanding of your message, you can begin to explore different ways to present it.Consider using mind maps, lists, or even sketches to organize your thoughts. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore unconventional ideas. The goal at this stage is to generate as many ideas as possible without judging them. Quantity over quality is key during ideation.**Step 2: Structuring**Once you have a pool of ideas, the next step is to structure your presentation. This involves organizing your ideas into a coherent and logical flow. Start by creating an outline that includes an introduction, main points, and a conclusion.Your introduction should grab the audience’s attention and set the stage for what’s to come. The main points should be organized in a way that builds on each other, leading to a natural progression of ideas. Finally, your conclusion should reinforce your core message and leave a lasting impression.Consider using storytelling techniques to make your presentation more engaging. Stories have a way of connecting with people on an emotional level, making your message more memorable.**Step 3: Design**With a solid structure in place, it’s time to focus on the design of your presentation. This step involves creating visual aids that complement your message and enhance the overall experience for your audience.Choose a consistent color scheme, font style, and layout that align with your brand or the theme of your presentation. Use high-quality images, graphics, and charts to illustrate your points. Remember, less is more when it comes to design. Avoid cluttering your slides with too much text or too many visuals.Pay attention to the flow of your slides. Each slide should transition smoothly to the next, creating a seamless narrative. Practice good design principles such as alignment, contrast, and balance to create a visually appealing presentation.**Step 4: Rehearsal**The final step in the creative process is rehearsal. This is where you bring everything together and practice delivering your presentation. Rehearsing helps you become more familiar with your content, refine your delivery, and identify any areas that need improvement.Start by practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself. Pay attention to your body language, tone of voice, and pacing. Make sure you are speaking clearly and confidently. Next, practice in front of a small audience, such as friends or colleagues, and ask for feedback.Rehearsing also helps you manage your time effectively. Make sure your presentation fits within the allotted time frame and adjust as needed. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become.In conclusion, the creative process behind a successful presentation involves four key steps: ideation, structuring, design, and rehearsal. By following these steps, you can create a presentation that not only conveys your message effectively but also captivates and engages your audience. Remember, a great presentation is not just about the content; it’s about how you deliver it. So take the time to prepare, practice, and perfect your presentation, and you’ll be well on your way to success.”

How to Tell a Better Presentation Story

presentation storytelling

presentation tips

Presentations

Oct 14, 2014

As we already know, stories make for powerful presentations. Great stories can capture the emotion and imagination of an audience. Instead of a straightforward report of the facts, stories allow audiences to connect with a message. Stories allow mundane and impersonal data seem more relatable. A presentation story creates a more personal and engaging audience experience.Whether you’re in the boardroom or in a meeting with potential clients, here’s a list of what you’ll need to tell the best presentation story:

The heart of the story

In literature, stories are told to reveal broader themes. While you’re not expected to philosophize abstract themes in your presentation, the story you share should also have a purpose. At its core, it should be more than just a story. Your story should be driven by a rationale that is essential to your story. In other words, it should perfectly illustrate the core of your message.To get there, consider asking  yourself these key questions:

  • What is the significance of this particular story?
  • What is the underlying principle behind your presentation?
  • What is the main point you’re trying to get across?

The more you understand the key takeaway, the better you can deliver your presentation story.

The main players

Stories can’t move forward without a central character. The character is responsible for setting the narrative into motion. It is also the character that determines what kind of story will unfold. Most importantly, it’s with the character that the audience connects with emotionally.It may seem odd to name a protagonist for your presentation story, but even the most mundane stories have its main players. It could be your customer. It could be someone who perfectly represents the demographic you’re targeting. You could even be the character of your own presentation story, especially if you want to talk about an experience that’s central to your key takeaway.

The structure

Beginning, middle, end. Whether it’s an epic hero’s journey, or a murder mystery riddled with flashbacks, all stories are anchored by this basic structure. As such, the same should be true for your presentation story.According to Fast.co‘s Aaron Ordendorff, the problem is that we often start our presentations at the very middle of the story. We don’t take the time to develop the narrative and provide proper context. At the same time, there is also very little discussion of the resolution and what should come next.To structure your presentation story properly, start with the basics:

  • Beginning – While you’re not expected to give every detail of your presentation, you do need to provide the audience with sufficient context to understand your message. Begin your presentation story be introducing your character and the problem they’re facing.
  • Middle – Once you’ve provided enough background information, you can begin to detail the purpose of your presentation and how that relates to the conflict your character is facing.
  • End – After discussing the bulk of what makes your presentation, end the story by providing a resolution that reinforces your key message

Reference

Orendorff, Aaron. “Bring Your Presentations To Life With These 5 Storytelling Components.” Fast Company. September 15, 2014. Accessed October 14, 2014. Featured Image: Death to the Stock Photo

The Secret Rule Behind Apple Presentations

apple presentations

case studies

presentation tips

Presentations

Rule of Three

Oct 10, 2014

By now, Apple has probably sold millions of iPhone 6 and 6 Plus units. In fact, Forbes is reporting that they might have reached the 20 million mark already. This comes as no surprise after all the hype surrounding the new releases. For months, blogs churned out theories on the specs of the new iPhone models.The excitement became even more palpable after CEO Tim Cook divulged details during the Apple keynote presentation last September 9.Apple is obviously a well-loved brand. Because of that, people will keep an ear out for news on their products and innovations. Still, their keynotes always have an extraordinary quality. Apple presentations are famous for being memorable, engaging, and easy to understand. It won’t be an overstatement to say that they’ve become a benchmark for effective delivery.Presentation expert Carmine Gallo recently wrote about the secret behind this success, and you’ll be surprised to learn that it’s a simple rule we’ve already talked about in the past. The secret is the “rule of three.”

What is the rule of three?

According to Gallo, the rule of three is among the most “profound concepts in communication theory.” Basically, it states that information presented in 3 parts are inherently more interesting and memorable. Considering our short attention spans, presenting ideas in three’s allow for better understanding and comprehension.If you think about it, you’ll notice the rule of three everywhere. From advertisements to nursery rhymes, plenty of the things we read and listen to follow this simple structure. Here are a few examples, as listed by Presentation Magazine:

Good speeches are peppered with lists with three items1. “Friends, Romans, Countrymen” – William Shakespeare in Julius Caesar2. “Blood, sweat and tears” – General Patton3. Our priorities are “Education, Education, Education” – Prime Minister, Tony BlairThey are used in religion…1. “Father, Son and Holy Spirit”2. “Faith, Hope and Charity”… in Public Safety1. “Stop, Look and Listen”… and in the film industry1. “The good, the bad and the ugly”2. “Sex, lies and videotape”

Another presentation expert, Sarah B. Marshall, offers this definition:

My improv coach, Kristin Schier, explained the rule of three this way. She said, “The first time you say something, it’s an incident, the second time you say something, it’s a co-incidence, but the third time you say something, it becomes a pattern”. In fact, she’s right, three is the smallest number of elements you need to create a pattern (or break a pattern).

The rule of three in Apple presentations

In the September 9 presentation, Tim Cook structured his speech into three main parts. First, he discussed the details of the new iPhone 6. Next, he talked about Apple Pay. Lastly, he announced the upcoming Apple Watch. Steve Jobs used to do the same thing. In the keynote he delivered in 2010, he talked about three main things: the iPad, the App Store, and the iPhone 4.Gallo also pointed out that Cook’s application of the rule of three doesn’t stop there. After introducing Apple’s latest innovations, Cook and the other speakers grouped discussed new features into 3 parts as well.On the iPhone 6 camera:

“Three things make your photos great. The lens, the imaging sensor, and the brains behind it all, the processor.”

On Apple Pay:

“Apple Pay is easy, secure, and private….Cashiers don’t see your name, your card number, or your security code.”

On the Apple Watch:

“The activity app measures three separate aspects of movement with the goal of helping you sit less, move more, and get some exercise.”

While these new products are certainly technologically complex, Cook and his team were able to communicate their ideas in an accessible manner. By using the rule of three, they allowed their customers to follow along without feeling confused. Best of all, they made it easier for journalists and bloggers to share sound bites all over social media.Apple presentations teach us that even the most complicated concepts can be condensed into something that won’t scare your audience away. At the same time, they show that simplicity can also be thought provoking. As Gallo puts it, “complexity demands a simple explanation if you hope to capture the imagination of your audience.” The best way to do that is by following the rule of three. READ MORE: One Simple Rule That Makes Apple Presentations ‘Apple-Esque’ – Carmine Gallo | Forbes Featured Image: Paul via Flickr

The Path to a Perfect Prezi Story

non-linear transitions

path tool

presentation design

Presentations

prezi

Prezi Feature of the Week

Prezi Path Tool

Oct 09, 2014

Creating a compelling and engaging story in a Prezi presentation can make a world of difference when it comes to captivating your audience. Prezi’s dynamic, non-linear format is perfect for storytelling, as it allows you to present information in a more visually stimulating and fluid way than traditional slide-based presentations. However, constructing a powerful narrative with Prezi requires careful planning and strategic design choices to ensure your story flows seamlessly and resonates with your audience.Here’s the path to creating the perfect Prezi story:

1. Define Your Core Message

Every great story starts with a clear and impactful core message. Before diving into the design of your Prezi, ask yourself: What is the one thing I want my audience to remember after this presentation? Defining your core message early on helps shape the rest of your content and ensures that your presentation stays focused.Why It’s Important:

  • Sets the Direction: A well-defined core message acts as the foundation of your story, guiding your narrative and helping you stay on track.
  • Enhances Clarity: A clear message makes it easier for your audience to understand and retain the information you’re presenting.

How to Do It:

  • Write down the single key idea you want your audience to take away from the presentation.
  • Keep your core message simple and concise, so it’s easy to convey and remember.

Example: If you’re presenting a new product, your core message could be: “This product will revolutionize the way we work by simplifying complex tasks.”

2. Outline Your Story Structure

Once you’ve defined your core message, outline the structure of your story. Think of your Prezi as a narrative journey, with a beginning, middle, and end. Organizing your content into a logical flow helps your audience follow along and keeps them engaged throughout.Why It’s Important:

  • Creates Flow: A clear structure ensures that your story progresses logically, preventing confusion and maintaining engagement.
  • Helps the Audience Navigate: Structuring your Prezi in a way that is easy to follow helps your audience absorb information without feeling overwhelmed.

How to Do It:

  • Break your story into three parts: the introduction (set the stage), the body (present the main content), and the conclusion (wrap up and reinforce the key message).
  • Ensure each section flows naturally into the next, using Prezi’s zooming and panning features to create smooth transitions.

Example: In a presentation on business growth, start by introducing the challenge, move into key strategies for overcoming it, and end with a success story or projection for the future.

3. Leverage Prezi’s Non-Linear Format

One of Prezi’s unique advantages is its non-linear format, which allows you to present information in a more dynamic, flexible way than traditional linear slide presentations. Take advantage of this feature by structuring your story in a way that moves around key ideas, zooming in and out of details, rather than moving slide-by-slide.Why It’s Important:

  • Engages the Audience: A non-linear flow keeps the audience interested and engaged, offering a break from the predictable slide transitions of PowerPoint.
  • Emphasizes Key Points: Zooming in and out of key content highlights important information and reinforces your story.

How to Do It:

  • Use Prezi’s zooming feature to transition between big-picture ideas and detailed explanations, giving your audience a sense of movement and depth.
  • Arrange content elements spatially to create visual relationships between different parts of your story.

Example: For a product launch presentation, you could start with a zoomed-out view of the market landscape, then zoom in on specific customer pain points, and finally zoom in further to show how your product addresses those needs.

4. Make Use of Visual Metaphors

Visual metaphors are an effective way to enhance your Prezi story by making complex ideas more relatable and easier to understand. Prezi’s dynamic canvas allows you to represent abstract concepts using metaphors like pathways, trees, or mountains, adding depth and creativity to your narrative.Why It’s Important:

  • Simplifies Complex Ideas: Visual metaphors break down complex information into easily digestible and relatable concepts.
  • Creates Memorable Visuals: Metaphors leave a lasting impression, helping your audience remember key points long after the presentation is over.

How to Do It:

  • Choose a metaphor that aligns with your core message. For example, a roadmap can symbolize a journey to success, while a tree can represent growth and branching out.
  • Integrate your metaphor into the overall layout of your Prezi, using the zooming feature to navigate through different parts of the metaphor.

Example: For a project timeline presentation, use a road or pathway as the central visual metaphor, with different milestones marked along the way. Zoom in on each milestone to provide more detail.

5. Use Storytelling Techniques

Crafting a compelling Prezi story goes beyond just organizing your content—it’s about creating an emotional connection with your audience. Use traditional storytelling techniques such as conflict, resolution, and a call to action to make your presentation more engaging and persuasive.Why It’s Important:

  • Builds Emotional Engagement: Storytelling techniques tap into emotions, making your presentation more memorable and impactful.
  • Encourages Action: A well-told story not only informs but also inspires action, motivating your audience to take the next step.

How to Do It:

  • Introduce a problem or conflict early on to grab the audience’s attention.
  • Present your solution or idea as the resolution to the conflict.
  • End with a clear call to action, encouraging your audience to act on the information you’ve provided.

Example: If you’re pitching a new marketing strategy, start by outlining the current challenges your company faces, then present your strategy as the solution. Conclude with a call to action, such as implementing the new strategy.

6. Keep It Visually Engaging

While storytelling is important, the visuals you use in Prezi are equally crucial to maintaining audience attention. Avoid overwhelming your audience with too much text or clutter. Instead, rely on visuals like images, icons, and videos to support your narrative.Why It’s Important:

  • Keeps the Audience Focused: Visuals are more engaging than text-heavy slides and help keep the audience focused on the key points.
  • Simplifies Complex Data: Charts, graphs, and images can help simplify complex information, making it easier for the audience to understand.

How to Do It:

  • Use high-quality images and icons to illustrate your story without overcrowding the presentation.
  • Break up large blocks of text with visuals that support the key points, such as data visualizations or case studies.

Example: In a presentation on company performance, replace text-heavy slides with charts that visually represent growth metrics, and use icons to represent key performance indicators (KPIs).

7. End with a Powerful Conclusion

The conclusion of your Prezi should bring your story full circle, reinforcing your core message and leaving the audience with a clear takeaway. It’s your final opportunity to make an impact and inspire action.Why It’s Important:

  • Reinforces the Main Idea: A strong conclusion ensures that your audience leaves with a clear understanding of your core message.
  • Calls the Audience to Action: Ending with a call to action encourages your audience to engage with your message beyond the presentation.

How to Do It:

  • Summarize the key points of your presentation, tying them back to your core message.
  • End with a clear call to action, whether it’s adopting a new idea, investing in your product, or taking the next step in a project.

Example: Conclude your presentation with a zoomed-out view of your entire Prezi, summarizing the journey you’ve taken the audience on, and finish with a call to action like “Let’s take the next step together.”

Final Thoughts

Creating a perfect Prezi story is about combining dynamic visuals, non-linear navigation, and classic storytelling techniques to craft a presentation that captivates and inspires your audience. By defining your core message, organizing your content, leveraging visual metaphors, and using Prezi’s unique features effectively, you can build a presentation that is both engaging and memorable. Follow this path, and you’ll be well on your way to delivering a powerful Prezi story that leaves a lasting impact.