A unique approach to organizing and constructing business presentations that draws on the insights of cognitive psychology and provides an infrastructure to build presentations that resonate with your audience like a good story.
Subtitled “Telling your business story effectively in seven slides or less,” this book is rich with advice but is a somewhat ponderous read. Combining cognitive psychology research with presentation techniques, the author creates a presentation scenario and then steps you through the process as if writing a play. People think in ideas, not facts, says Kelly, even though most PowerPoint presentations are nothing BUT facts. Steps demonstrated include:
1. Building a story board 2. Selecting supporting facts 3. Elaborating in a set of seven slides
The first two sections docused on developing a presentation based on the way people's brains work, Kelly suggests that a presentation doesn't need to be any longer than seven slides. Anything beyond that is wasting your time and the audiences - they won't remember it. He walks you through the process of developing a story, from creating a premise to establishing conflict, adding tension, and ultimately providing a resolution to your presentation.
If all seven slides are used, here is the sequence: 1. Engagement - create dramatic impact, perhaps demonstrate the core conflict 2. Backstory - give just enough, not too much 3. Build Tension - it’s all about consequences 4. Bring it to a Boil - create real pressure, something that needs resolution 5. Offer Choices - don’t give solutions, give them options. Avoid seeking the best, go for the least objectionable to all. 6. Provide Resolution - focus on what, let them ask how 7. Set up the Sequel - let them “take charge,” fill in the blanks.
The book closes with examples of how to use the process for meetings, with third party contractors, in sales, etc.
Longer and more detailed than you may expect from the title, there is some excellent guidance in this book if you are patient enough to wade through it.