Some people understand the value in preparation before presenting to a group, while it eclipses others. Take Joan. She’s a brilliant high tech budget analyst, who thinks her value lies in her being able to extrapolate data and forecast what the next financial do’s and don’ts are.
Then it happened – She was requested to present her recent findings at an A list executive meeting. It was a white-knuckle ride she’ll never forget. “I stuttered and stammered through the whole thing like a frightened child talking her way through a horror movie. I didn’t prepare so, to put it bluntly, I blew it.”
What would she have done differently? “ I would have looked at my data, asked what the executives were hoping to find out, and created an outline on what I would say, and, as you would say, Practice, Practice, Practice!”
She’s right! That’s what I would have said.