E423 | Common Mistakes Presenters Make and How to Avoid Them

Effective public speaking requires distilling complex expertise into a clear, relatable message that guides an audience toward a specific transformation. Speakers often struggle with the "curse of knowledge," failing to realize that audiences cannot desire what they have not yet experienced or been exposed to. To bridge this gap, utilize the "via negativa" lens by helping listeners identify what they do not want, which often provides more clarity than abstract goals. A compelling presentation moves beyond superficial sound bites by incorporating an inciting incident, a clear framework, and iterative, in-person practice. This process transforms a standard lecture into a lived-in case study that resonates deeply, ultimately forcing the speaker to refine their core concept and ensure the audience understands exactly what to think, feel, and do after the session concludes.