Trick or Trade?

Reading the event programme of an upcoming conference, I noticed there was a session titled 'The Tricks to Designing Memorable Presentations'. I couldn't help but focus on the word 'tricks' in the title. You see, when I think of tricks, I think magic tricks. When I think magic tricks - I think deception.

When a person regards methodologies as tricks, I get worried, as I believe they are under valuing their trade or skill as a presenter.

To be a skilled presenter, you should be using methods that you know will get results - not tricks. Remember that everything you do in a presentation should be done to enhance your objective, not detract from it.

In the Stand and Deliver program, you are shown how to make your presentations more memorable and more engaging. You experience what it's like to:

1. Not rely on PowerPoint
2. Use movement
3. Incorporate stories
4. Utilise association

These are not tricks, they are proven methods that just work.

So with that in mind, reflect back on your last presentation: How did you go? Have you reverted back to old habits, or are you still doing things differently to ensure your presentation is memorable?