Are you preparing a difficult presentation? Is there a risk the audience won’t be cooperative? Are they likely to oppose the suggestions you’re about to make? Do you expect little political games? Attendants blocking your constructive ideas? Here are 5 tips to influence others more easily, and have more impact with your presentation.
1. Conduct an intake interview
Before starting to write your (difficult) presentation, get in touch with the key stakeholders. Tell them you want to ensure the solution you ultimately propose, takes into account their needs and their perspective on the situation. Ask them lots of questions to better understand their point of view.
2. Do a dry-run
If your solution forward contains elements that are ‘difficult to digest’ for some of the audience members, make sure to meet them beforehand. Walk them through your presentation, and listen closely to their reactions. Use their input to make your presentation even better. Not only will you improve your presentation, but in addition you increase your chance of having a true ‘ally’ during the meeting.
3. Show what’s in it for them
Rather than explaining why your idea forward is important for YOU, explain them how THEY will benefit from it. Reality is – (most) people care more about their own objectives than about yours. If you want their true alignment and commitment, show how your idea is ultimately going to help them too.
4. Compare different options
Directors are often frustrated when they see a presentation with only one single option worked out. It gives them the impression the author only considered one possibility forward. If you want to help your audience make a decision and feel good about it, explain and compare several options. It will reassure your audience they are making the right decision.
5. Highlight the consequences of not deciding
Often people prefer not to decide on the spot and take time to ‘reflect about the situation’. If you, the influencer, have lots of time, that might not be an issue. However, if it’s important for you to decide as quickly as possible, you might consider adding a slide in your presentation explaining why it’s important to decide NOW.
Go and apply these 5 tips – your power to influence others will be greatly enhanced.
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