A presentation to a dozen people that results in meetings with two of them is a success. John Bowen, CEO of CEG Worldwide, LLC (http://www.cegworldwide.com), gives this advice:

• Rehearse your presentation in front of a test audience and make a video recording.
• Watch it three times:
  • First, without the sound, fast forward. Annoying habits will be easy to detect.
  • Second, with sound only, to get accustomed to the sound of your own voice.
  • Third, with video and sound. Look for how well you made eye contact, evaluate your voice, see if you offered too many details, and eliminate jargon, acronyms, etc.
• Then give your presentation to another test audience.
• At the presentation, offer a white paper, article, or other material on the subject. Use a written evaluation form or card. Include an offer of a free consultation or diagnostic tool. Respond quickly to everyone who expresses interest in it.
• Follow up with those who declined the offer.
• Contact people who could not attend.

From CPA Insider, July 17, 2006 (www.cpa2biz.com). For the complete article, click on the following link: https://www.cpa2biz.com/News/ Columnists/Bowen/Presentations+That+Pack+a+Punch.htm.