Prepare and Achieve Credibility

A couple of workshop participants recently asked me for some tips regarding presentations. I gave a few that are helpful but, upon reflection, I've concluded that two things should be emphasized:

1. Your goal is credibility.
2. The way to achieve credibility is through intense preparation.

Every aspect of the presentation should be considered, evaluated, and polished. This includes the items that may not appear to be polished, but which add to the dramatic effect. There is a combination of substance and show biz that goes into making a highly prepared presentation seem natural. Anything that is too slick - and will harm credibility - should be jettisoned. [That's why I sometimes avoid PowerPoint. It can be too clever by half.]

All of this takes time, practice, and a powerful desire to be extraordinary.