622 - Can you say less and get more?

Yesterday, I stood up in front of an employee group that I have been presenting to for the past 6 years.

Normally, the ancillary benefits providers are given 5-10 minutes to present their services.

The HR Director told us all that today we would only have 2 minutes max. to present at each of the sessions as we were on a tight schedule.

I got up in front of the room and gave my presentation in a record time of 1 minute and 20 seconds.

No, I didn't talk at lightning speed. I adjusted my presentation and left most of it out. I improvised my script to fit the situation.

What happened next was fascinating!

The Marketing Director, who I know well from the chamber of commerce, has heard every presentation since I started 6 years ago. She has heard at least 15 presentations.

On this day, after hearing my 1-minute presentation, she came straight to me afterward and excitedly said, "Jane, I had no idea your services covered so many things."

This was my clue. People zone out after a minute or two.

By reducing my presentation to only the most basic emotional components of what I offer, I got the best engagement I have ever had at the company.

Give people what they need to hear not what you want them to hear.

I adjusted immediately and I will now use that new script wherever I present.

✅ It pays to say less, and say it so they feel it.

Have you ever had an unexpected situation that caused you to make unexpected changes?

Are you completely satisfied with your ability to present on the spur of the moment?

Do you know what you would do in such a situation?