Although we regularly write about creative strategies for presentation design on the Ethos3 blog, we haven’t really touched on creative strategies for presentation training. After reading a recent post from Fast Company introducing various intriguing facts about creativity, we were inspired to implement their findings in the presentation space. Here are 3 aspects to look for in a presentation training program:
Internal reflection
It is in solitude that many of us enter a stage called “constructive internal reflection.” Since individuals process information differently, including solitary presentation training activities will give attendees the space they need to generate ideas. For example, I am left-handed. Research says that I likely process information using the left side of my brain. This means I process information by analyzing its parts before evaluating it in its entirety. Right-brained processors are the opposite – backtracking from the whole to its separate parts. When placed in a group during a presentation training activity, the mixture of processing styles could detract from the task of idea creation. Ensure that the presentation training program you choose sets aside alone time.
New approaches
According to the Fast Company article, engaging in new actions and utilizing new tools launches creativity to the moon and back. Those who achieve endeavors of creative value typically have higher dopamine levels and a greater sense of exploration. A presentation training program should encourage exploration in its courses and lessons. If it has a proprietary system of presentation design, or even presentation delivery, related to your specific industry or company, then that is a good sign that you and your team will be exposed to new tactics. These new approaches should include structured activities in different and distinct ways. As you and your team try new things, you’ll probably experience a surge in creativity.
Mental breaks
Throughout the day – or days, depending on the course structure – a plan for regular breaks between sections should be in place. During these breaks, the program outline could pose a question to spur thinking in the direction of the topic for the next lesson. It might instruct your team to engage in a little bit of daydreaming when assessing the question and constructing a response. Or it could completely ditch the question altogether and the presenter could provide a notebook and pen to attendees for doodling purposes during breaks. Mental rests in the form of daydreams have been proven to spark imagination and incite creativity. So they are crucial to any training program.
Presentation training is always advantageous for individual presenters and presentation teams. But those programs that have the ability to enhance creative output are the ones to sign up for ASAP. To find out more about creativity and your presentations, review the articles below:
Training Creativity: Can psychology boost our creative potential?
How Creative Should My Presentation Be?