For both presenters and their lucky/unlucky audience, there can be nothing more soul-destroying than a good old-fashioned session of 'Death by PowerPoint.' Some of the most legendary sessions within this category have crawled along for well over an hour, while very little actual information is displayed with a variety of charts, text, quotes, dissolving paperclip animations, and a range of scene transitions that have not been acceptable since 1985. Related:Promotion Killers: Poor Presentation SkillsIn the 21st century, sales pitchesand presentations need to be short, sweet and straight to the point - grab the viewer's attention and hold on for dear life!
Tip #1: Dish out the tablets!
Nobody can truly enjoy staring at a projector screen. Providing tablet computers to delegates and potential customers is a great way to get them involved in proceedings. By having full control of a media-rich presentation, the audience can browse everything at their own pace - it is possible that different viewers will want to focus on different aspects without having to wait for the dull hand-out at the end. This technology is also great for remote locations where viewers participate over a webcam connection.
Tip #2: Keep it brief.
In the dating world, most people believe that the first 5-15 seconds is all that it takes to make a permanent decision about a potential partner - first impressions really are everything! In the modern business arena, most participants would have already done their homework about whatever is being offered, and these sessions are an ideal opportunity to take questions and deliver unique content. While it may be tempting to 'open with a joke,' this could well be one cliché too far for formal business situations.
Tip #3: Don't just present your product, get the audience involved.
Tablets are already a useful tool for displaying interactive content, but they are also a great tool for showing interactive presentation products in action. Around 33% of all UK adults use a tablet on a regular basis, and when combined with smartphone users, it is possible that most of the audience will already be carrying something that is capable of showing off your proposed service, app or product.
Tip #4: Remember that everyone has their own speaking style.
Speaking in a style that has been honed by professional training is an admirable quality to have, and it will put the audience in mind of The Kings Speech. However, in certain market sectors, keynote speakers are expected to adopt a more relaxed style (i.e. digital media). On the rare occasions that pitching tasks do not end in disaster on The Apprentice, viewers will probably notice that different candidates are chosen to present to different types of businesses - identifying the personality of the target audience is paramount.
Tip #5: Make eye contact.
While eye contact can be an invaluable presenting tool, too many speakers have fallen victim to bad advice in the past and chosen to focus on one audience member. This may not be intentional, but keeping a gaze fixed on a certain piece of furniture in a conference room or hall could make nearby viewers feel that they are being watched constantly - it is a good idea to try and not make people feel uneasy.
A common interview question employers ask during job interviews is, "Why are you interested in this position?" They want to know why you want to work at their company, and the specific motivation behind why you applied for the job (not that you need a paycheck).
To persuade the employer that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you applied for, your answer to this interview question should start with, "I'm interested in this job, at this company, because…" and then list at least three reasons why you want to work there.
Here is how you should structure your answer to the interview question, "Why are you interested in this job?"
Example: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that, in this role, my skills could help solve this problem within your company. I also see an opportunity for me to learn and grow these skills, so we both would benefit personally, professionally, and financially. If I can come in here and solve problems and accomplish your goals, I know I can develop my career the way that I want to."
This part of your answer lets them know that you are excited about what you will be able to accomplish for them, while still emphasizing what they are getting out of the bargain. You need to sell yourself as a business-of-one who can provide a service better than the competition.
Reason #2 – Cultural Fit
Bigstock
Your second reason when answering, "Why are you interested in this job?" also shows fit, but in a different way.
Example: "Also, I like the culture of this organization. From what I've heard and what I've been reading about the company, it seems like a great fit for my personality and my values. I really connect with your mission statement, and feel passionate about the work that you do."
This is a general answer, so if you can be more specific by actually naming a couple of things you've heard or read about the company's workplace culture that you like, it will help your cause. This is one area where your pre-interview research is critical.
Does this company value and/or provide resources for employee development?
Mention those things that truly speak to you and your values so your sincerity shows.
Reason #3 – Personal Fit
Bigstock
Wrap up your answer to this interview question with something that personalizes it a bit more.
Examples:
"And this job is in a great location for me. I've always wanted to move here."
"And this job is only five minutes from my house, so eliminating the commute is a big plus."
"And I've always used your products, and I just love them. I am really excited about being a part of that."
Say something that gives you another reason of your own for wanting this job. This interview answer is a fantastic place to let your enthusiasm for the job show. It's very appealing to employers, and it gives them one more reason to hire you.
Download Work It Daily's FREE list of common interview questions here.
You'll have a very clear and thorough answer to the question, "Why are you interested in this job?" if you follow the formula above. Set yourself apart from the competition today!
Are you struggling to answer other common interview questions? We can help.
We'd love it if you joined our FREE community. It’s a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades. More importantly, we have tons of resources inside our community that can help you prepare for your next job interview.
It's time to find work that makes you feel happy, satisfied, and fulfilled. Join our FREE community today to finally become an empowered business-of-one!
This article was originally published at an earlier date.