Most of us have heard, even recited, the start of the soliloquy from Hamlet. “To be or not to be? That is the question.” Few of us would consider that recitation had any impact. Anyone can download and read the piece. It isn’t the same as being delivered by an actor, on stage, in costume and in the moment. A presentation is not simply a script, read out on a stage. The delivery of a presentation (p3) demands much more than that.
Hamlet carries on “Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune…” describing his inner turmoil. Perhaps he was suffering a presentation where the presenter was so terrified that they hid behind the lectern. Or so bored that they had delivered in a monotone. Or so distracted by their slides that they completely ignored the audience in front of them. Or so casual that they just rambled using their bulletpoints as starting points of improvisation. We all recognise when a presenter delivers a great presentation. And also when they don’t.
“To be or not to be?” describes choice. As a presenter, it is a choice how one delivers but it must be fully understood that delivery is what truly makes a presentation of value. The most thoughtfully constructed message supported by engaging and effective supportive media will die on the stage like the actor who misses their cue, has no emotion and mumbles into their fake beard. Delivery (p3) is essential for every presentation.
Many academics and scientists and managers will cry foul at the concept of a performance in delivery of their presentation. Whilst no-one expects a full Shakespearian drama, be clear that a lack of engagement or monotonous and emotionless delivery will cause every presentation to fail. The audience must be persuaded, they must be engaged and communicated with, not lectured at. This is not a gift but an acquired skill that everyone can improve. Delivery changes everything. “To be or not to be?” describes the opportunity and possibility. Will you take it?