Hot Tip: Leave The Slides At Home
One way to ensure better event participation and engagement is to explore alternate ways to present information. Slides aren’t always required to make your point!
Try passing out a short written synopsis of your session. Include the title, a statement of objectives, key points, and expected outcomes. A written document will require a different copy approach than your traditional PowerPoint presentation. However, a handout will provide a permanent record for later review and this fresh approach is sure to keep your audience engaged.
Here are my 5 easy steps to a successful speaker handout:
- Include a high-resolution graphic or diagram. Eye-catching visuals will help foster thinking and exploration.
- Ask the audience to read the document before the session. This will help convey your message clearly and leave more time for in-depth interaction and discussion.
- After the audience has read the document, offer a brief synopsis (about 5 minutes) of the key points
- Once the key points are reviewed open the session with Q&A to ensure audience engagement, understanding, and buy-in.
- Have fun! A handout will help attendee involvement but your enthusiasm may have the biggest effect.
What have you tried in place of slides? Share your successes with us here!
