6 Secrets of Master Presenters.
What do famous public figures like Ellen Degeneres, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Tony Robbins have in common? Besides being insanely successful in their respective fields, they’re also world-renowned presenters.
After watching hundreds of presenters online and in person, we at Big Fish Presentations decided to highlight six presenters, past and present, that really stuck out to us. Here’s a look at their strategies—and how you can incorporate their magic into your own presentations.
1. SCOTT HARRISON, FOUNDER OF CHARITY: WATER
Harrison came from promoting clubs for a living to helping bring clean water to millions of people across the world. His secret? Combatting the general apathy toward giving by helping people understand the great need through storytelling. The stories that Harrison tells allow him to connect with his audience on an emotional level.
Key takeaway: Tell stories that resonate.
2. STEVE JOBS, FOUNDER OF APPLE
The late Jobs is a prime candidate for presentation case studies because when on stage, he was articulate, nimble, and steadfast. Yet, one of his most overlooked qualities as a speaker was his ability to make even the most technical jargon sound simple—and even fun. For example, when introducing the iPod in 2001, Jobs chose to present the iPod as “1000 songs in your pocket.” This primed the audience for the complexity of the device while still focusing on its potential impact. Keep relevance in mind in your next presentation; when your message is relevant to your audience, it resonates more effectively.
Key takeaway: Simplify the complex.
3. ELLEN DEGENERES, HOST OF THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW
Who says serious can’t be fun? The well-loved DeGeneres, who is also the voice of Dory from Finding Nemo, has a knack for unveiling the beautiful stories of humanity, and she is unafraid to couple her words of wisdom with a bit—OK, a lot—of humor.
Key takeaway: Use humor to liven up your audience.
4. TONY ROBBINS, LIFE COACH, AUTHOR, AND STRATEGIST
People love motivational speeches. But Robbins will be the first to tell you he hates that term. He drills to the heart of issues, exciting his crowds not by empty ear-tickling, but by laying out practical steps to guide people toward their peak performance.
Key takeaway: Provide actionable, practical content.
5. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR., CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST
One of the greatest activists to ever live, King Jr. spoke against the injustice of racial discrimination. Instead of being blinded by the social norms and expectations of his time, he continued in his fight for justice and equality. His speeches were all the more powerful because of the plain truths he spoke in the face of huge challenges.
Key takeaway: Challenge destructive ideologies and present truth.
6. GARY VAYNERCHUK, ENTREPRENEUR
Sometimes people need a speaker to give them a proverbial slap in the face. Not caring what people think is one of Vaynerchuk’s specialties—he calls people out and tells it like it is. His success as an entrepreneur and public speaker stem from his willingness to say whatever it takes to get his point across.
Key takeaway: Don’t be afraid to be real.
There you have it. Six presenters, six unique takeaways that we can use to captivate and motivate our audiences. While these tricks of the trade are refined through practice, you can begin to apply these ideas to your presentations immediately.
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And, as always, thanks for reading.
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