Remember show and tell in early elementary school? Despite being considered a shy kid, it was one of my favourite school activities. Sharing one of your beloved toys or trip memento is meant boost confidence and public speaking skills.  But why did I love this exercise so much more then a typical class presentation? And can I apply my love for show and tell to become a more engaging speaker?

I found this interesting article outlining the benefits of show and tell in your work life: What Adults Can Learn From Show and Tell. The article focuses more on the benefits of sharing in the workplace, but I believe considering some of the author’s points and letting them guide your presentation can make it a better experience for you and the audience:

• Sharing provides a sense of pride: You’re not just presenting boring, cold facts. Take pride in what you’re sharing and the audience will respond.
• Sharing provides meaning: There is meaning in the work you do and you are providing a huge benefit to the audience by sharing that meaning.
• Sharing stokes innovation: You are opening a dialogue that may spark innovation in the audience and yourself. This is exciting stuff!
• Sharing promotes momentum: When meaning and pride are in place, momentum grows.
• Sharing builds culture and team spirit: For all the reasons above, your audience is now in on the secret you’ve shared. You have provided an opportunity to engage with them on this important topic. You are now a team.

So think about the topic of your next presentation the same way your thought about that favourite toy in kindergarten. You are sharing not just presenting. Hopefully the joy you will feel from the exercise will be infectious and appreciated by your audience.