I heard an amazing statement from a client not long ago. A friend had told him before a presentation, “Don’t worry. You’re fine. They’re not expecting much.”

Wow. That blew me away because sadly, it’s true. Presentation audiences don’t expect much because the norm is so low. Business audiences are used to presenters who read their slides, pack too much in, and speak without energy or passion.

And to be better than that doesn’t take much. But be careful. “Fine” is not good. It’s half-way, lukewarm, average. Fine is dangerous and will:

1. Let you off the hook

2. Encourage mediocrity, and most of all…

3. Cause your client to miss your message, passion and commitment

So if you’re doing just enough to get by, you’re cheating your audience and yourself.

Truth is, the difference between a “good” presentation and a memorable one (where the human connection happens) is your willingness to go the extra mile. So push yourself and your team. Dig deep, go out of your way, and raise that bar. The results?

1. A great presentation

2. LOTS more fun!

3. No regrets

4. Personal satisfaction

5. A higher hit rate for sales presentations

6. A new level for other teams in your office to strive for

7. AND you will have started raising the norm for what audiences should expect!

Let it rip,