What makes you look up from your plate and really listen to someone doing their one-minute introduction at a networking event? Be honest... are you someone that bores people or do you educate, amuse, or inspire your audience into taking action? Here are some tips on how to create memorable one minute presentations.
ONE: Be memorable and grab attention
Try asking a question to get attention and engage with people. Try an unusual start and description of what you do... here are a couple of examples I have seen quoted before: "I'm a time lord. I help people get more from their working day" and "I help people get dressed. I'm an image consultant." Always succinctly describe what you offer - make it benefit-led
Always say your name and company name at the start or immediately after your "unusual start."
TWO: Focus your message
Don't cover too many different things in each minute. Vary what you say each time by:
Using a prop that links to what you offer
Quoting a testimonial and who gave it to you
Providing a great or shocking statistic
Relaying a funny and relevant story
Giving real examples of how you solved a problem, got a great result, or averted a disaster for a client in the last week/month
Being topical (by mentioning a news story) and linking this back to your offering
Giving advice on how to solve a common issue or providing the answer to a question you are often asked
Give tips on how to do something
THREE: YOU and YOUR not me, me, me
Remember to talk to your audience using "you" and "your" language. That's phrases such as "Are you looking for...' or 'Is your business suffering with...."
Don't just talk about you (we do this, I do that...).
Don't waste your minute saying things like 'We have been established since 1981 and have 5 warehouses in Sussex. Our lead time for producing widgets is 14 days....' Yawn. So what? Is that the most important thing for me to know right now? This tip applies to all the copy on your website and literature too!
FOUR: Include a call to action such as:
Requesting an introduction to a particular company (this is very successful for many people)
Providing details of an offer and how to take advantage of it
Explaining how or where to buy or view a new product
Connecting on LinkedIn or liking your Facebook page
FIVE: Deliver it well
You may be nervous and hate presenting, but networking works for many businesses. Practice, practice, practice. It will get better!
Look up, smile, look around, and make eye contact. Speak clearly and loudly enough to be heard. Don't speak too fast. Have your script on cards or paper if you need it. Look presentable and feel comfortable. Finish with your name, company name, and catchphrase if you have one.
Pearce Marketing
