The other day, Reader, I attended a professional luncheon where the speaker had a powerful, attention-grabbing message to share.

I sat in the back, and so got to witness the audience slowly putting down their forks, putting away their phones, and otherwise signaling that they were all-in.

THAT'S a magic moment. ✨

And then . . . the speaker made a bonehead move.

Oh, I'm sure she didn't think it was bonehead.

She probably thought it was smart or even expected of her in an attempt to give a "good" presentation.

Here's what she did.

She dimmed the lights, and turned on a video. 📺

From my perch in the back of the ballroom, I groaned as I watched her hard-earned attention deflate, one set of eyes at a time.

It's almost like someone took a pin to the thought bubbles floating above the audience member's heads . . . 🫧 POP! Back to email . . . POP! 🫧 What time's lunch?

Now, there was nothing wrong with the video itself.

But once it went on, our powerful connection to her was broken.

As both a speaker and a coach for people who need to speak in their jobs, I see mistakes like these consistently happening in our offices, meeting rooms, and other places where presentations are delivered.

I've sat in bad presentations that coulda been good, or good presentations that coulda been great.

But watching that young woman's must-hear message reminded me of all the things we still do when we present that are working against us, not for us.

If you want to make sure to nail your next presentation, read this:

​Read "12 Things NOT to Do In Your Next Presentation"​

What about you, Reader? Whether you give presentations, help as part of a team to create them, or maybe just as an audience member, what's working for you--and what's not? I love to hear from you. Just hit REPLY and tell me your presentation story, advice, or nightmare! I read all my emails and answer all that time allows.

(And yes, if you're somebody who has to give a presentation, lead a meeting, or make an impact in any way, let's talk about how coaching can help you avoid the pitfalls and be more successful with less stress. Email me and let's chat.)

In the meantime, I'm sending you my sincere hopes that the presentations you give or attend stop stinking. Life's too short--let's start soaring. Red capes on, friends!

Always, Darcy

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P.S. BTW, it's the last day for the special Kindle sale with over 50 business & professional development books, including mine. Check 'em all out here! And did you know you can give an ebook as a gift? Hit REPLY and I'm happy to share the details with you. Thanks! --D