As a class, since we weave together and apply academic learning to complex projects from real companies, I'm constantly focused on building "Jack's Toolbox" of applicable marketing and sales tools that my students can carry directly into internships and full time positions. As a result over 12 semesters, we've created a meaningful ecosystem of graduates, interns, and employees among a large number of companies ranging from small Kendall Square startups to Google and Dell. Lots of practical learning, a solid amount of discovery, a degree of fun and just enough consistent anxiety to keep everyone, including me, on the edge of only slightly being in control over the period of every 13 weeks.
One of the tools that we consistently use and consistently improve on every semester is the ability to make presentations, both individually and as a team. This becomes a critical tool throughout the semester during multiple presentations around case studies and team project reports, and, most importantly, for the one hour long presentations made to company management during the final exams. I was therefore pleased at the end of this semester when one of the teams produced the following 9 minute presentation on... How to Make Great Presentations. Click HERE, and you can view and listen to what Axel, Jillian, Wade, Walker and Simon created.
As you take a look at their video, my expectation is that some of you may think that there's nothing really "new" in their comments. I would have you consider that initial reaction with two of my own observations observing, listening to and studying salespeople for the last 25 years:
Since I'm already thinking ahead to the fall semester, it would be very helpful for me to get your comments and recommendations on your best books, blogs or articles on making the best presentations.
Easy to read. Again, mostly blocking and tackling basics, but also with a more than a couple of "Hadn't thought of thats".
This morning I'm off to Gillette Stadium to work with the KahnLitwin management team during what will be the culmination of a year long project to create practice plans and will now be summarized in 30 minute presentations. A superb team consisting of strong managers who will today be presenting thier final business cases. They've also spent the past year honing their presentation skills so it should be a rewarding time for everyone.
Have a great day! Let's go out and sell some stuff.
-Six years, 350+ highly satisfied graduates!
-Everyone attends is focused on two simple questions:
1. How can I improve my own sales effectiveness?
2. How can I enable my salespeople more effectively?