Tag Archives: Nancy Duarte

Nov16

Resonate.

Posted on by
Standard

In Nancy Duarte’s book Resonate (linked below), she addresses how presentations are a powerful persuasive tool, especially when placed into a story framework.  Applying stories to presentations is a technique that works to effectively convey valuable information.  Even though technology has offered us countless ways to communicate, it can never replace the communication of a presentation.  Duarte stresses that presentations will indeed play a role in your future, and that the future isn’t just a place you’ll go; it’s a place you’ll invent.  Your ability to shape your future depends on how well you communicate where you want to be when you get there.

resonate

“Great presenters transform audiences.”

Some things to remember about presentations:

1.  Create meaningful content

  •  Transform ideas into meaning
  • Recall stories
  • Turn information into stories
  • Share more than just facts.

2. Structure reveals insights

  • Establish structure
  • Order messages for impact
  • Create emotional contrast
  • Contrast the delivery

3. Deliver something memorable

  • Use engaging and evocative visuals
  • Give a positive first impression
  • Value brevity
  • Use presentations to transform and change your world
  • Let your story resonate

Duarte offers a visual of the structure of a presentation that is also quite helpful!  She calls it “The Contour of Communication”– it is a form that she suggests most great presentations unknowingly follow.

story structure

Presentations should have a clear beginning, middle, and end.  The structure should guide the audience through the content as it pushes and pulls them through the unfolding events.  An audience will stay engaged as you unwrap ideas and perspectives frequently.  Keeping your presentation filled with vivid details and descriptions will make it more memorable, and perhaps persuade your audience to adopt the message you’re sharing. During my next presentation, I hope to use some of these helpful techniques she offers.  For more tips, advice, and insight on effective storytelling through presentations, check out Resonate to improve your own storytelling!