Loud Thinking

If you want to communicate that your project’s goals are “right on target,” it’s tempting to present your colleagues with the all-too-familiar image of a bull’s-eye. But nothing gets an audience’s eyes a-glazing like a visual cliché. To make your presentation stand out, throw out the first visual concepts that come to mind. They’re the ones that occur to everyone else, too. Brainstorm several ideas for each concept to work your way toward fresh, surprising imagery. To illustrate a partnership, forgo the image of a handshake in front of a globe. Instead, opt for a picture of a reef ecosystem or a stylish photo of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. If you’re trying to portray the concept of security, avoid the lock and key. Try a Doberman Pinscher or pepper spray. Your audience is far more likely to remember what you have to say if it comes with unexpected images.

Today’s Management Tip was adapted from the
HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations.