Archive for the ‘Marketing’ category

Present like CEO of the Decade

December 2nd, 2009

Do you ever wonder how some business presentations can be so captivating while others are just plain boring. In a recent webinar provided by Citrix Online, I learned about the presentation secrets of the CEO of the decade. First, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. In Steve Jobs’ presentations, you will rarely see any words. Great presenters use what is called picture superiority by only using photos to instill the thoughts in the audience’s mind. There are no bullet points and the key is to use fewer words and shorter sentences like in any business writing. The bullet points and other information can be given in handouts to investors and audience members. Second, you need to dress up numbers. Instead of just saying 5 gigabytes, Jobs says 5GB storage for 1000 songs in your pocket. He also uses simple metaphors that relate to current times. These two things gives the facts and numbers meaning to the average audience member who might not be familiar with technical jargon. Third, you need to build momentum. When introducing the iPhone, Jobs mentions it as an ipod, a mobile phone, and an Internet communication device; all leading up to the iPhone, not three individual products but one amazing one. Fourth, create an experience because no forgets how you make them feel. People might forget facts and numbers, but they would never forget the joy and amazement you instilled in their hearts. Fifth, practice, practice, and practice. Steve Jobs doesn’t give an excellent presentation by just winging it and neither should you.