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.
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