Bullet points lead to presenters reading instead of speaking
Use the Picture Superiority effect (PSE) to increase engagement and reduce boring presentations. It is easy to begin reading what is on the screen when the screen is filled with text bullets, this is really boring to the audience.
If you use a simple image with a heading as a focal point (using the power of PSE) you can still say the same things, but without putting your notes on the screen for the audience to read (before you do). Use presenters view to put your notes in your presentation to prompt you, or use note cards as prompts. Simple slides lead to a more conversational presentation style. A simple slide (as below) also doesn’t limit the presentation to the bullets alone – but allows an interactive discussion on the idea or point.
Versus:
Bullet points limit the presenter as they tend to read what is on the screen, while the audience does the same. The audience can read what is on the screen faster and easier in their heads than you can out loud. When we read bullets off the screen it makes our presentation sound stilted and prevents a conversational style. There are alternatives to boring bullet points – use labeled images instead.
Get help from a professional to design your slides
If you really want to get your presentations right, consider hiring a professional presentation consultant to help. A professional can help you get perspective about what’s important, help you protect your brand and deliver clear powerful visuals which augment your message. If you need help with with Presentation skills, learning how to use alternatives to Bullet points that limit you as a presenter contact us today.
Richard Riche
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