The Mobile Presenter

I often find parallels between musicians and presenters. While they are both putting on a show (of sorts), they still need to come across as human to be able to connect with their audience. In that attempt, though, they sometimes share a bit too much.

When you look into creativity and innovation, you'll inevitably come across improvisation theatre. Since this isn't a topic I know a lot about, I recently read the classic "impro" by Keith Johnstone. This book (and topic) doesn't seem to have a lot to do with presentations, but bear with me for a moment.

One way to make things more memorable for your audience is to involve some of their other senses, in addition to the senses of hearing and seeing. For example, have you considered making things more tangible?

With all the preparation that goes into a presentation - the content, the slides, the technical equipment - there's one very important tool that speakers often forget to take care of.

Their voice.

I sometimes see conferences or user groups trying to solicit new, i.e. first-time speakers. It's easy, they say. You don't have to talk for an hour, they suggest. Try giving a short talk about something that you're familiar with.

While this is well-intended, I found that it's actually pretty hard to give a good short talk. I'm wondering if it wouldn't be easier for first timers to start with a longer talk.