Having discussed a poor BNI 10 minute presentation in a recent blog (which you can read here), I thought it was only fair to highlight one at the other end of the scale.
It was about seven years ago, and the fact that I can still remember it speaks volumes for the quality of the presentation. The BNI member concerned is a photographer (and he’s still in BNI) – and his idea for his presentation was to demonstrate the process of producing a professionally done portrait shot.
Clearly some preparation had to be done to make this work – so he’d arrived early to sort out his background, lighting, camera settings, and his post-production software on his computer, which was linked not only to a printer, but also to a projector so that everyone could see exactly what he was doing.
The 10 minutes started with him picking a volunteer from the audience. Now he could easily have primed one of the female members of the group to come to the meeting with makeup on, and ready for a shoot – but no, his choice of subject was the electrician in the group. He was a lovely guy, but not someone who would have naturally been described as ‘photo-shoot material’!
Photos were taken, clearly showing the photographer’s skill at getting his subject to feel comfortable, and then the work began on post-production. Various techniques to bring out colour in the subject’s eyes, or to alter the lighting/shading effects around the face were all demonstrated, and throughout the whole process, the photographer kept up a running commentary on what he was doing. Crucially, he also talked about the type of business and referrals he wanted – appropriately, he was after work in portrait photography at the time.
As the presentation developed, I looked around the room – everybody, bar none, was completely enthralled with what was happening. Now I don’t deny that the photographer was clearly talented – both in his profession, and in his ability to speak eloquently while doing his stuff. But I also believe that he was enabling all of his audience to take in the information he was giving them.
Clearly, the presentation was very visual – so visual learners were easily able to take in the information. The presentation was also very practical – so kinaesthetic learners, while not doing anything themselves, were seeing a practical demonstration, which is a key way for them to learn. And what of the auditory learners? They were well catered for because of the commentary provided.
A fantastic presentation – as good as the printed results presented to the electrician at the end. What was the best 10 minute presentation you’ve ever seen?
Charlie Lawson – BNI National Director and Word of Mouth marketing expert, whose passion is to see BNI members succeed in their businesses.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
The best 10 minutes that I ever saw was from the charity Befriend a Child. The present managed to convey his passion for the work that his charity does and how it benefits not only the children that they help but the whole family.
Not only was his passion evident but he also managed to touch every single person in the room with his stories. By the end there was a room full of adults with tears in their eyes. Now every time I think of a charity, Befriend a Child is the first one I think of. Job done I think!
The best one I ever saw was this one – Matt Richardson – Recognition Express. Clever, witty, lively, memorable and to music http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChbjCsegn0c&feature=player_embedded