Mind your language

For many people, the focus of preparing a presentation is the slides and getting the technology right. These are important, of course, but they should not overshadow the words you use to deliver your message. I have often thought when listening to presentations that the presenter should have spent more time crafting the message and less time filling the slide show with special effects.

All too often, the result is an impenetrable presentation. This is especially true at business talks. Unless the presenter has thought carefully about which words will convey their message clearly, there is a danger that listeners won’t be very much wiser at the end of the presentation.

It’s very easy to get carried away with enthusiasm for your topic. When you are presenting about your own business or about something you care about passionately, that enthusiasm and passion is really engaging for your audience. But if they haven’t a clue what you’re talking about, they still won’t get your message.

Jargon is the problem. In certain circumstances, jargon can be a useful short-hand. As long as everyone listening has a shared understanding of what you mean by certain words, phrases and abbreviations, it’s fine to use jargon as a quick way of explaining a point. However, unless you are with a small group of colleagues, it’s unlikely you can assume this level of understanding.

Sometimes, the problem is that the presenter feels the need to use complex language that sounds more important than the words we use in everyday conversation. But everyday words are fine. In fact, everyday words work best. Everyday words allow you to get your message across clearly, without ambiguity.

Here are a few commonly used jargon terms and their everyday equivalents. If you find yourself using one of these, try replacing it with the everyday phrase. It will work, I promise. Look out for more examples in later posts.

At this moment in time - Now

We need to think outside the box - We need some new ideas

We’re on a steep learning curve - We have a lot to learn

Go the extra mile - Do more, try harder

It’s not rocket science - It’s easy/it’s not difficult

A ball park figure - A rough or approximate figure

Skill set - Skills

Move the goal posts - Change the rules

Level playing field - Equal or fair

24/7 - All the time

July 20, 2009  Tags: , , , , , , ,   Posted in: Presentation content

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