Networking: 2 Minute Training #18: Offer To Give A Joint Presentation

Networking: 2 Minute Training #18: Offer To Give A Joint Presentation

In a networking meeting, you learn about individuals, you learn about their professions, and when they present to your group, you learn why its worth your while to talk with them or suggests the presenter’s skills to your contacts.

Most groups have a sign-up sheet where they keep track of who’s presenting, when they presented last, and who’s presenting next, so that you don’t hear from professional money managers all month long. But life happens, and business happens, and changes often need to be made at the last minute. What can you do if a presenter fails to show up?

Offer to give a joint presentation for the benefit of the group if an occasion like this ever occurs. Now, all you need to do is get prepared. So, what do you need to do?

First, find someone to present with. Sure, if its a last-minute presentation when someone is missing, people are very forgiving— but when one person talks, it seems like a monologue lecture. When two people present some material, people feel that only the information BOTH people agree is important will be presented to the group. So, who’s the best person to present with? Depends on your expertise. Want to talk about networking and the basics everyone should know? Look for a professional coach! Want to talk about how technology will save you time and money? Find a computer, networking, or design expert! Want to talk about preparing for your future? Find a CPA, money manager, insurance provider, or stockbroker! Form a powerteam with that person, and agree in advance that you could work together on a joint presentation.

Second, agree on a presentation topic. This could happen face-to-face, in a one to one meeting, in an email or over the phone. Give the topics you feel are the most important aspects, and then choose all the content you can fit into the 10 minute speaking time limit.

Third, Let leadership know you are both available. You need to let them know ahead of time, that you are both prepared. This will prime the pump as it were, letting them know you are waiting in the wings to rush out and save the day, so long as you are both available.

Lastly, unfortunately, you need to be in the know. You have to keep tabs on the presentation schedule. If you haven’t already, get on the speaker schedule. Its just a good idea to keep your exposure levels high. When you arrive at a networking meeting, talk with people on the leadership team and find out who is presenting that day (its always good to keep in the mind of the presenter and the leadership team). If they mention that the current presenter said they might be late, or wouldn’t be available— this is your time to pipe up and remind them that you and your fellow networker will be available to give a joint presentation to the group. If the normal presenter does show up, than you have at least let the leadership team know that you are available. If they fail to show, you will have some time to prepare before the meeting gets into full swing.

Did a joint presentation teach you something? Tell us about it!