Sales Presentations Training

A friend of mine has to give a one hour presentation before a committee next month. It will determine whether or not she gets to manage her own Starbucks store-I’d say a lot was riding on her presentation! It’s been a pleasure to watch this young lady grow over the year that she has been working at my favorite Starbucks and I’m pleased that she asked me for some presentation advice.

I asked her about the process. She told me that she will be presenting to about seven managers who will be looking for her best ideas on increasing revenues for the store. She mentioned to me that she had seen two previous presentations by her peers to the committee. What struck me the most is when she said how a particular individual was so out of character at his presentation. Gone was the smiling, gregarious and joking young man that we all had come to appreciate-In his place was the serious, no smile, no humor, stoic presenter!

I’m sure we all witnessed the same occurrence. What strikes me funny about this is that everyone knows “you” and they love your ability, leadership and unique character…so, why would you leave that at home the day of your presentation?
I get the fact that this is a huge deal for these young up and coming stars but my advice to my friend is to let the committee she the real her and her delightful humor. I can work with her on her presentation skills and ensure that she will give a very tight presentation but as with all speakers-it’s up to us to let the committee see our real and genuine self!

Steve Mertz
Let the Genuine You Shine Through!

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