I will admit that I use a PowerPoint more often than not. It is not because I am trying to dazzle anyone, it is mostly for the sake of being my notes for the process. Seldom do I use a tremendous amount of wording on them, but I need a few key prompts to get me through most presentations. I blame this reliance on lack of preparation or procrastination; I am not sure which is more powerful or more to blame.
Recently, I was viewing a few George Carlin presentations on YouTube, and it reminded me, have I ever seen a comedian use a PowerPoint? If you study comedians, you will find them quite professional in their delivery. A list that I created with help from the Wikihow on How to be a Comedian:
- Original Material
- Ability to read an audience
- Relate to the average person
- Remember to walk the stage
- Respectful attitude
- Watch others and emulate one you like
- Practice body language and timing
- Practice in front of others and notice their reaction
- Watch classic presenters like Steve Jobs, Johnny Carson, Jack Welch, Dr. Deming
- It’s not a monologue
The single most important point is PRACTICE. I think that is the difference over everything else. Steve Jobs was a great presenter and maybe even more a great practitioner of his art. He practiced and rehearsed, The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to Be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience.
It is the art of practice, or rehearsal that separates good talks from inspiring talks. I think that is what separates comedians in most instances also. They are well rehearsed to a point they seem to be making it up as they go. Do your presentations come out that way?
George Carlin Talks about “Stuff” (there may be some inappropriate language)