Dominic Walliman’s TEDx Talk Quantum Physics for Seven Year Olds is a great primer on communicating complex concepts. Here are a few of his suggestions that I love:
Meet your audience where they are: “As a communicator, you must take into account different knowledge levels and backgrounds and set the pace accordingly. Before I give a keynote, I do as much research on my audience as I can to understand their background,” he says. Yup! Step outside of your cognitive comfort zone and into the minds of your audience.
Don’t lose the plot: Walliman suggests you make the most important points and support those insightful points with a few relevant details. Then stop. ‘Less is more’ – words to live by in communication and fashion. Find the right words and say them. Then stop!
Explain why you’re so passionate about your topic: Walliman believes that if your audience can understand why you’re fascinated with your topic and why it’s so important, they’re more likely to feel the same way. I couldn’t agree more. Show us that you care and tell us why.
Not sure how to crush your next presentation? Navigate tough questions? Need some pragmatic, actionable communications advice? Consider Office Hours with Lisa, a great way to get bite-sized, personalized coaching. And there are tons of resources in poseycorp’s newsletter – subscribe here. Get some skills! Because it’s the great communicators who create the change they want to see in the world!
