Senior leaders are among the toughest crowds. They're incredibly busy so they won't sit still for a long presentation with a big reveal at the end. Often they'll just interrupt before you finish. Here's how you can earn their support:
-
Summarise up front. Lead with all the information your audience really cares about - high-level findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Then move on to supporting data, subtleties, and other material. Place a short overview of key points at the front and use the rest of your slides as an appendix.
- Set expectations. Let them know you'll spend the first few minutes on your summary and the rest of the time on discussion. Even the most impatient executives will be more likely to let you get through your main points uninterrupted if they know they'll get to ask questions soon.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted from How to Present to Senior Executives by Nancy Duarte. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.
Looking for a speaker for your next event?
William Montgomery, our Founder and CEO, is available as a keynote speaker and event host. His experience as a speaker encompasses a wide number of audiences on a diverse array of subjects. He is also a volunteer for Speakers for Schools and Inspiring the Future.