Begin your presentation with the end in mind

Stephen Covey offers this advice in his book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The book is written to develop personal leadership.

You can apply this habit to your presentations in three ways.

1. Develop your presentation with the end in mind.

The first thing that you should do is to write a short simple statement that clarifies your purpose. Then you will develop your presentation faster and it will be better focused.

2. Give your audience a roadmap.

Tell your audience, early in your presentation, where you are going. Don't make them guess - because you might lose, confuse or annoy them.

For example:

"By the end of this presentation you will have a better understanding and appreciation of the safety measures that we have put into place for you."

3. Deliver your presentation with the end in mind.

The only reason you are speaking is to achieve your goal. Stay focused on your goal during your presentation so you don't get thrown by diversions or drawn off on tangents. And if you reach your goal early - they agreed to the deal - then finish your presentation early and sign the contract.

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