Reconsidering the use of slides: do they help?

We don’t talk about it, but in meeting rooms everywhere, power point slides bring with them an unmistakable atmosphere of reluctant attendance, the unexpressed sigh of knowing we have to sit through something dull.

Consider this: power point adds a second layer to our too often unperfected in-person attempts to persuade. We too often throw our talk and slides together in the hopes of alchemy — assuming somehow that the two will magically work together on their own.

The upshot is that although power point is considered the gold standard of clarity, it more often serves to distract. In most cases it splits focus and complicate our communication rather than simplifying it.

Theatre goers recognise what most business-people don’t: even the most experienced directors find it difficult to master the art of aligning multiple media to create a desired impact. In fact, it’s a rare talent— like Julie Taymor, Cirque du Soleil, Robert Lepage or Simon Godwin — who can get away with coordinating multi-media and live performers without making an incoherent mess.

Successful communication depends on knowing what you’re trying to accomplish before you decide on turn of phrase. In business the most common goal is to persuade. Clarity is of the essence, focused listener engagement is required and distractions should be kept to a minimum.

Here’s a thought: what if instead of pitching with props, we stuck to what we rely on outside of work when it comes to getting what we want? The first step is to start a conversation listeners wanted to continue. After all, if you have the last word, you lose: the real business is always done further down the line.

In other words, what if instead of leaning on a second medium— like Power Point —we relied on our own physical presence and ability to communicate?

As in paragliding, only after we’ve mastered one skill for persuasion is it wise to add another layer. At that point, images can be extremely effective. That’s where the theatre can help.

Go to a play, any play. Watch with eyes focused on how different elements work together to create a desired effect — and when they don’t. There is always something you can steal for your next big meeting.