A simple tool to make your presentation move your audience to action

In this age of technology, we can overthink many things that are actually quite simple. One example is a technique I use with Post It Notes. I use this tool all the time to develop presentations that will easily engage an audience and leave a lasting impression.

Many recognize this as a storyboard, easy to modify and totally portable. I use it to prepare all my presentations, and even review and update old ones. I call it “Presentation Mapping”.

Here’s what you need: a pack of small multi-colored sticky notes and a manila file folder, either letter size or, for larger projects, legal size. Label your folder with the name of the presentation and get to work. First, map out the main topics or key points you want to cover. Each theme has its own sticky note color. Put them at the top of the open folder. Plan to use the left and right sides of the open folder. I like to use manila folders because I can fold them up and take them with me. I work from home, but I often use coffee shops to take a few minutes of work time when I’m away.

With my main themes set to one color at the top of the open folder, I start adding content using a different color in each column created with the theme title. I see you’re moving fast. I use a blue sticky note for the “step line” or Big Idea, attached to a space to the side. This way I make sure that each main point ties back to the Big Idea. This keeps me on topic, and not following any “rabbit trails” during my presentation. The Big Idea is carried out throughout the presentation. If it’s a teaching lesson, I write down the objectives for the students to make sure they don’t get lost in the shuffle.

In your presentation, you may want to highlight the stakes for your audience if they don’t buy into your big idea. Make the sticky note red. You can also highlight a main point with a short illustrative story. Make the sticky note blue. If you need to, you can select a hotspot column and change its position in your presentation. You want it in a logical order that is easy for your audience to follow. They will be anticipating your next point and you don’t want to redirect their thinking. Create drama by putting your main points in a meaningful order. I like to think of it as building to a crescendo (as in music) to a final shocking point. When different elements of your presentation are in different colors, changing their order is quick and easy. You are now ready to write your presentation based on your final mapping.

I carry a small stack of sticky notes, so when I have a big inspiration and I don’t have that particular presentation map with me, I write it on a sticky note and transfer it to that presentation map when I get back. to my home office. The submission assignment process is always under construction and I can always find ways to improve it.

There you go. High technology in its simplest form put to work creating impressive presentations. I frequently work with speakers helping them develop presentations that will resonate with their audiences. This simple tool is one of the most useful ideas I can pass on. Good luck and speak well!