How often have you left a presentation feeling wary? What was it that made you feel that way? There are words and phrases that cause distrust especially when spoken by someone we just met. In a presentation setting, establishing trust is key, and losing it can be detrimental. Avoid getting into a situation where you lose your audience by keeping these three things in mind while crafting your narrative.
Absolutes Set You Up for Failure
Always, never, every and the like are words that are unbelievable. Speaking in absolutes often creates pause in the minds of listeners. While crafting your narrative, it’s best to stick to facts and figures. As they say, the numbers don’t lie. Having data to back you up helps your listeners maintain trust in you when something starts to sound far-fetched. You may have a product or idea that is staggering. Keep in mind that your audience is likely hearing this for the first time. They may be put on the offensive if you come on too strong with absolutes, especially if they aim to marginalize. Graphs, charts, concrete examples, and compelling stories are much more effective than in-your-face, all-or-nothing language.
Hidden Hyperbole
Labeling your product or idea as shocking, amazing, or incredible is sure to draw out the inner skeptic in your listeners. Hyperbole can be a huge turn-off. These words have a negative connotation because they are based in opinion. What is amazing to me may not be quite as impressive to you. The more creatively you describe each function, value point and detail of your product, the better. Your audience wants to hear truth. If maintaining trust is your ultimate goal, using quantitative language gives them the opportunity to fill in the blanks with their personal impressions. Hopefully, they will arrive at believing your product is shocking, amazing and incredible all at once.
Credibility Matters
Saying things like “why would I lie?” or “believe me” will quickly put you on the path to audience distrust. Your listeners should see you as the foremost authority in your field. But, in order for them to trust you, they must know you are trustworthy. If you are skipping your introduction and credentials for humility’s sake, it unfortunately may backfire. Be sure to let the audience in to your journey and show them how you arrived as the expert in your subject. You owe them that. They don’t owe you trust, and they certainly don’t know you well enough to believe you’re telling them the truth. Maintaining their trust hinges on your ability to articulate why you are speaking to them in the first place.
All told, there will often be skeptics in the audience no matter what. You can establish yourself as qualified to present solid data sans hyperbole and someone will likely still doubt you. That is ok. The goal is to create relationships and help establish your listeners’ confidence in your narrative. Are there any other presentation turn-offs that you see all too often? Leave a note in the comments! Worried you may be saying something to cause distrust? Our presentation coaches can tailor a training to your specific deck and mentor you through the entire process. Reach out to collaborate and start maintaining trust with your audience today!
