It Is Not About What You Want

Most presenters tend to start off with something like “I want to tell you…” or “I want everyone in this room to know…” These phrases imply that it is about what you want (as the presenter) rather than what your audience wants or needs.

When you present, you are trying to persuade others to think, feel, or do something differently. This involves selling a product or an idea. Therefore, if you are the seller (presenter), then it is not about what you want, it is about what your buyer (audience) wants.

Try removing “I want” statements, especially during the first few minutes of your presentation.  It’s simple to do.  Try something like this, “Today you will discover…” or “During the next couple of minutes, you will learn…”  Or use the collective “we” as in “Together we will explore…”