W5: Presenting Information Effectively and Power Point

Last week we saw a TED talk by Guy Kawaski on Enchantment. In one area of his talk, he covered some great tips on effectively using presentations.  This week we’ll look at another presentation, this time by Vanessa Van Edwards. 

Did you ever wonder why some TED talks go viral? Or why do some seem to be better than others? Are communication signals contagious? Vanessa Van Edwards reveals some fascinating insights in this area.  Take note of how she describes the use of hands and gestures that we use as conversation starters (and killers as well).

Think about some hints offered the next time you engage with others. After the video and during this week, I’d really like each of you to incorporate some of her ideas into your daily life and see if there are any changes.   These can be practical exercises in Human Relations.

Questions to answer in this week’s discussion.

1. What was the most enlightening part of the talk? What stood out to you? 

2. Have you ever done any conversation killers she discussed?

3. What specific actions would you take to utilize some of her recommendations? 

4. What were some of your observations if you changed anything about yourself this week based on her talk 

topic: Teaching Effective Presentation Skills

Instructions: This project requires you to develop a PowerPoint slide presentation for use as a training tool with managers and supervisors on preparing an effective presentation. As you move up through the workforce, you will, at some point, be required to give a briefing or presentation to others. Hopefully, one day you will also be able to develop one of your worker’s speaking and presentation skills. There is great satisfaction in taking a nervous employee, helping them to develop their presentation, coaching them on delivery, and then watching them knock it out of the park! With this in mind, your presentation should briefly outline (i.e., no more than 2-3 slides) how to start a presentation (attention-getting steps) and provide an overview for the audience. You should focus most of your presentation (i.e., 8-10 slides) on what makes an effective presentation. Factors to consider in all forms of communication–Who is your audience? What is your message? Are you trying to persuade? Inform? Week 5, Lesson 1 has a lot of great information to get you started, as well as the Forum in Week 4 (the Guy Kawasaki TED Talk). 

I’ve also attached an excellent file slideshow demonstrating the keys to a successful presentation. 

Here are some guidelines to get you started: You will brief a small group of newly graduated APUS Business Students on how to present an effective presentation. Your audience ages are anywhere from 20-60 years of age, with various business backgrounds, military experience, and even some small business owners.