End with the Beginning in Mind

In Chapter 10, I described the Symmetry linkage: starting your presentation with an anecdote or data point and never mentioning that item again until your conclusion. The two references then serve as bookends. Once again, I'll practice what I preach: In the Introduction, I recounted my experience with Jeff Raikes of Microsoft; and so, in the style of a Puccini opera or Broadway musical, let's reprise that anecdote.

I spent an entire session working with Jeff to focus and organize his story, and never once addressed his delivery skills. But that focus paid off. Jeff's presentation rang with conviction, not because of his vocal inflection, illustrative gestures, or eye contact, but because he'd gotten his story right. The lesson: A well-prepared story enhances a presenter's delivery skills.