In executive coaching, you hear a lot of singular techniques — one framework, one mindset, one magic fix that’s supposed to solve everything. In reality, even the best techniques only work when they adapt to the terrain. The central lesson is simple: knowing not just what to do, but when and why to do it. It’s the difference between approach and technique, strategy and tactic. When I run in the mountains, I shorten my stride whether I’m going uphill or downhill, but for entirely different reasons.
What’s Your Theme?
Technical and business presentations can be difficult for both speakers and listeners. Using a theme sentence will be very helpful. A theme is the most important idea or bit of information that you want your listeners to take away. If they forget everything else, what is the one thing you want them to remember? That is your theme.
Put your theme into a single sentence which is no longer than 10 words. Repeat that theme sentence at least three times during your presentation. Be sure to use the same vocabulary each time. Simplicity, clarity, and consistency are critical to ensuring that your listeners understand your theme.
Speakers often find that developing and wording the theme sentence is difficult. If it is difficult for the speaker, imagine how difficult it will be for the listeners. A clear theme sentence is well worth the effort.
Author
Authors
MORE POSTS
What’s Wrong With Our Communication?
“We need to work on our communication skills.” “We have a communication problem.” “We need to fix our communication.” As an expert at the intersection of people/organizations and communication for over 20 years, I have heard these comments many times. But what does it mean to solve communication problems, or to make the communication in your company “better”? To share information about a major change successfully? To manage that one employee who can’t get along
The Terrain Informs the Technique
In executive coaching, you hear a lot of singular techniques — one framework, one mindset, one magic fix that’s supposed to solve everything. In reality, even the best techniques only work when they adapt to the terrain. The central lesson is simple: knowing not just what to do, but when and why to do it. It’s the difference between approach and technique, strategy and tactic. When I run in the mountains, I shorten my stride whether I’m going uphill or downhill, but for entirely different reasons.
How Important Is That Impression to Meeting Your Goal?
How often do you think about your goal when you prepare for a high-stakes interaction? Is selling your company or product the goal? Are you looking to connect with potential partners or purchasers? Are you looking to build your personal brand and move upward in your career? Do you want to become a thought leader? Are you hoping to raise visibility for your company? Do you want to educate people about what your product can
QUESTIONS? NEED HELP?