Informative Presentations

In every informational talk, there is an element of persuasion. In other words, why should they listen to you? Just because you have a captive audience, doesn't mean you don't have to influence.

The first step in creating an informative talk, is to have a clear focus. Is your purpose to teach? Then the focus will be skill-building. The audience should be able to do something after the presentation.

Is your message strictly informational? The audience needs to know something after hearing your presentation. The keyword is data.

One effective way to build your presentation is mind mapping.

To structure an informational talk, remember the three T's:

• Tell them what you're going to tell them.
• Tell them.
• Tell them what you've already told them.

Begin with a purpose statement. Follow with a three point agenda. Develop each of the three points with examples. Summarize your main points and leave them with an action step or food for thought.

For more information on mind mapping, read Chapter 6, pages 144-147 in Knockout Presentations.

To view an informative outline, read Chapter 6, page 150 in Knockout Presentations.