Why do so many people think PowerPoint is boring and frustrating? Knowing how to use it effectively can make the difference between 'eh' and 'WOW'. Don't get caught in these traps: TOO MANY BULLETS:  Yes, capitalized on purpose. When presentations rely too heavily on slides filled with bullet points, it can bore or overwhelm the audience. Lack of Creativity:  Many presentations lack creativity and visual appeal. When slides are monotonous or uninspiring, they fail to capture and maintain the audience's attention. Poor Design:  Design flaws such as crowded slides, unreadable fonts, distracting animations, or poor color choices can detract from the overall effectiveness of a presentation. Time-consuming:  Creating and formatting slides can be time-consuming, especially if the presenter is not proficient in PowerPoint or lacks design skills. So how can a great designer help you get over this sad PowerPoint relationship? Visual Storytelling : We shift from text-heavy slides to visually engaging ones that tell a story. We use high-quality images, diagrams, charts, and minimal text to convey key points. Custom Templates : We create custom-designed templates tailored to your branding and preferences. These templates include consistent colors, fonts, and layouts to maintain visual coherence throughout the presentation. Keep it Simple : I call this 'word dieting.' It’s a skill, I’ll admit – being able to distill content to the most essential points and avoid overwhelming the audience with excessive information. Visual / White Space : We know the importance of visual hierarchy and white space in slide design. We’ll organize your content to draw attention to the most important elements and use white space strategically to improve readability and aesthetic appeal. Multimedia and Interactivity : What’s more fun than multimedia? The trick is to use it properly so it’s effective. We can use videos, animations, and interactive features to enhance engagement and convey information in dynamic ways. If you need help and want to love PowerPoint again, let's talk before your next presentation.

The mere thought of standing before a sea of faces makes my stomach churn. My heart races. In those moments, I silently wish the floor would open up and swallow me whole. Public speaking has never been my arena—and that's perfectly okay. Embracing My Strengths Not everyone is meant to command a stage. Not everyone thrives under the bright lights of public attention. And I've learned that's not a weakness—it's a different kind of strength. My strength lies in what happens before  the spotlight hits. While other designers might chase the glamour of presenting, I've found my calling in the quiet, meticulous work of creating something transformative. The Power of PowerPoint Precision I specialize in one thing and one thing only: PowerPoint design. This isn't about dabbling or spreading myself thin. It's about becoming a master of a specific craft. No logos. No websites. No branding materials. Just PowerPoint—refined to perfection. By focusing exclusively on presentation decks, I've developed an expertise that goes beyond mere slides. I create visual narratives that: Amplify your message Capture your audience's imagination Make complex ideas instantly understandable Ensure your presentation leaves a lasting impression Why Specialization Matters In a world of generalists, there's profound power in specialization. My laser-focused approach to PowerPoint design means I'm not just creating slides—I'm crafting experiences. Each deck is a carefully constructed journey that supports the speaker's vision, voice, and message. From Anxiety to Artistry My aversion to public speaking isn't a limitation—it's the very reason I've become exceptional at what I do. Because I know how intimidating those moments can be, I design with empathy. Every slide is a lifeline for someone who might be feeling exactly what I feel when facing an audience. What I Offer Meticulously designed PowerPoint presentations Slides that tell a story Visual support that elevates your message Designs that make complex information accessible A behind-the-scenes partner dedicated to your success My Promise While others might seek the spotlight, I find my joy in your success. When you step onto that stage and deliver a presentation that captivates, informs, and inspires—that's my moment of triumph. I don't need to be in front of the room to make an impact. Just give me a PowerPoint, and I'll give you a presentation that speaks volumes.   Need help? Let's talk before your next presentation.

During presentations, approximately 60% of attendees admit to multitasking, such as checking emails or using their phones, according to a survey by Prezi and Harris Poll.   Which is why it's important to make your presentation engaging to keep the audience's full attention. How do you do that? Your slides are not scripts.   If you're going to read what's on the screen, just send the presentation in an email and cancel the session. Everyone can read what you're saying.  See or listen?  Your audience can either look at your screen or listen to you, they can't do both. Choose how you want to impact your audience.  Don't overuse animation. Animation should be used sparingly and selectively so it has the right impact. Too much animation distracts your audience and you lose your message. Take breaks.  Don't talk longer than 10 minutes at a time without a break, Q&A or activity. Don't give your audience enough time to find something else to do.  Audience participation.  Play a game, break up the audience into groups, change activities, have them come up to the microphone and share something.  If they're busy and engaged, they won't multitask.  With the right speaking skills + a compelling presentation,  you will capture your audience's attention and make a memorable impact.  If you need help, let's talk before your next presentation.

Twenty-plus years in training and development isn't just a number—it's a testament to a profound commitment to learning, growth, and transformation. My journey through the world of training has been more than a career; it's been a calling. I've discovered that true learning isn't about transferring information—it's about enabling change, empowering individuals, and creating meaningful impact. The Heart of Effective Training Design When clients approach me to help design their training courses, I'm not just creating another educational product. I'm crafting a strategic pathway to knowledge, performance, and action. My approach is rooted in three critical questions that form the foundation of every successful learning experience: 1. What Do You Want the Learner to KNOW? Knowledge is the starting point. But it's not about overwhelming learners with information—it's about providing clear, relevant, and actionable insights that form the basis of meaningful change. We'll work together to distill the essential knowledge that will serve as the cornerstone of your course. 2. What Do You Want the Learner to DO Differently? Knowledge without application is just trivia. The real magic happens when learning translates into changed behavior. I focus on designing courses that don't just inform but transform—creating clear, practical pathways for learners to apply what they've learned in real-world contexts. 3. What ACTION Do You Want the Learner to Take? Every great training course has a purpose beyond learning. Whether it's implementing a new strategy, changing a work process, or developing a personal skill, we'll define the specific actions that demonstrate the course's success. Beyond Design: Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences My approach goes beyond visual aesthetics (though those are important too). We create courses that: Engage learners intellectually and emotionally Provide clear, measurable learning outcomes Inspire immediate and sustained action Reflect the unique goals and context of your organization Why Experience Matters Twenty years in training and development has taught me that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Each course is a unique journey, carefully crafted to meet specific learning objectives. My extensive background allows me to: Anticipate potential learning barriers Design intuitive and compelling learning experiences Blend pedagogical best practices with innovative approaches Understand the nuanced ways adults learn and grow Ready to Transform Learning? If you're looking to create a training course that goes beyond information—a course that truly changes performance and drives action—I'm ready to help. Let's work together to design a learning experience that doesn't just teach, but transforms. Your knowledge has potential. Let's unlock it. Need help? Let’s talk before your next course.

Imagine walking into a room where the lights are dim, the furniture is old and worn, and the walls are bare. Your first impression might be less than enthusiastic, right? The same principle applies to presentations. Visual elements like colors, fonts, images, and layout can significantly impact how your audience perceives your message. A well-designed presentation not only captures attention but also enhances understanding and retention of the content. Consider the psychology behind it. Humans are naturally drawn to aesthetically pleasing things. When your slides are visually appealing, they create a positive association with your message. On the other hand, cluttered or poorly designed slides can distract and even detract from what you're trying to convey. Moreover, a polished presentation reflects positively your professionalism and attention to detail. It shows that you value your audience's time and have put effort into crafting an experience that is both informative and engaging. So, before your next presentation, take some time to consider the visual aspect. Choose colors that complement your message and use fonts that are easy to read. Incorporate relevant images and graphics to reinforce key points. And don't forget about consistency in design throughout your slides. By paying attention to the visual appeal of your presentation, you not only enhance your credibility but also increase the likelihood of leaving a lasting impression on your audience. Looks Matter. Need help? Let’s talk before your next presentation.

According to Harvard Business Review, people should be able to understand a PowerPoint slide in about THREE SECONDS .  This is known as the "glance test".   So, when I see a presentation, my first instinct is to ask, “how can this be simpler and easier to digest?” I’m not talking about just whole sections of content; I’m talking about dropping repetitive words and shortening sentences to hold the audience.   For example, if each of your bullets starts with ‘The’ – drop it! Then think about how to make each bullet shorter and more concise.   BEFORE: What are the 3 main causes of pollution? The cars on the road are driving too much. The smoke that rises from forest fires. The fumes coming from chemical production.   AFTER: Three main causes of pollution: Excessive driving Forest fires Chemical production fumes   Your audience does not need extra words to make your point. They will appreciate seeing less to convey the same message. Combine it with effective visuals and BAM! You have now passed the glance test. Remember, keep it simple. Need help? Let's talk before your next presentation.

Not everyone loves PowerPoint. Not everyone knows where to start. Everyone loves loading the presentation with as much information as possible in the greatest number of slides. Everyone on your team creates presentations with an inconsistent look and feel. The client doesn’t love it and you don’t know how to fix it. I feel your pain. What if you can train your team to design their own presentations? What if you can give them the tools and hands on practice to simplify content and create great design? I’ll tell you what you’d have – you’d have a confident team that can succeed on their own and design presentations that WOW the client every time. If you are interested in training your team to create their own presentations, that’s where I come in. At your office, I’ll teach basic design principles, show your team how to simplify content, and then  do a training workshop with hands on practice, and provide virtual support after the workshop. If you want to empower your team, let’s talk before your next presentation.

Action words, or verbs, are the powerhouses of your presentation. They don't just convey information—they inspire, motivate, and drive your audience to act. When used effectively, action words can transform a bland presentation into a compelling call to action.   Why do action words matter? Action words capture attention and maintain interest. They make your goals and instructions clear and straightforward. Strong verbs encourage your audience to take immediate steps.   When you’re using action words, Start with a strong opening : Begin your presentation with an action word to set the tone. Example: " Discover how our new strategy can transform your business operations." Be direct and clear: Use action words to give clear instructions and expectations. Example: " Implement these techniques to boost your productivity." Focus on outcomes : Highlight the benefits and results of acting. Example: " Achieve your goals faster with our innovative tools." Use action words throughout: Use them not just in your opening and closing, but throughout your presentation to maintain momentum. Example: " Explore the possibilities and accelerate your growth."   Try these out to get started - implement, explore, transform, accelerate, achieve, discover, expand, initiate, elevate, engage, streamline (everyone’s favorite buzzword!) Remember, if it’s an action you want, start with action words. By incorporating powerful verbs into your presentations, you can engage your audience, clarify your message, and drive the desired actions. So, the next time you prepare a presentation, let action words be your guide to success so your audience will take action. If you need any help, let's talk before your next presentation.

A PowerPoint won't solve business problems by itself, but it can help kickstart problem-solving in different ways: Express complex ideas, strategies, or problems concisely.  Visual elements such as charts, graphs, and diagrams can help stakeholders quickly understand the issue and its implications. Present a strategic plan  - breaking down the steps needed to tackle specific business problems. It helps in mapping out goals, objectives, timelines, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Make data-driven decisions  - you can highlight trends, correlations, and root causes, making it easier to discuss potential solutions. Train staff   - on new processes, strategies, or tools that are needed to solve business problems. Engaging your audience  - boost morale and motivation by showing a clear path forward, celebrating wins, and highlighting opportunities. Benchmarks to track progress over time  - regular updates can show what's working and what needs adjustment, keeping everyone aligned and focused.   If you're looking to elevate your presentations to solve problems and drive results, I'd love to chat.

Your presentation is only as impactful as what happens after it ends. A well-crafted Call to Action (CTA) ensures your message sticks and motivates your audience to take the next step. Here’s how you can nail that crucial ending:    🎯  Be Clear and Specific   Don’t leave your audience guessing. Tell them exactly what you want them to do—schedule a meeting, download a resource, or provide feedback.    🧠 Align with Your Message   Your CTA should seamlessly connect with the rest of your presentation. If your focus was on the value of a new product, the action might be to “Book a demo today!”    💥 Create a Sense of Urgency   Inspire immediate action by setting a timeline: “Join now—registration closes Friday!” or “Follow up within 24 hours to receive a special offer.”    👥 Make It Personal and Engaging   Use inclusive language like “Let’s work together” or “We’d love to hear your feedback.” This fosters connection and encourages participation.    🔄  End with Confidence   Instead of trailing off with “That’s it…” finish strong: “Now it’s your turn—let’s make this happen!” A confident close leaves a lasting impression.    Remember, presentations are not just about sharing information—they’re about inspiring action. Finish with a clear, intentional CTA, and you’ll guide your audience toward the results you want!    If you need help, let's talk before your next presentation.

In the high-stakes world of professional speaking, one deck can make or break an entire opportunity. This is a story of transformation, precision, and the power of strategic design. Just days before a critical keynote, a speaker found herself in a panic, the stakes were high. With 200+ expectant audience members waiting, she needed a presentation that would not just inform, but inspire. Enter the presentation design hero. Working against a razor-thin five-day timeline, I dove deep into the project. This wasn't just about slides—it was about crafting a compelling narrative. By strategically restructuring the content, here's what I did: Removed slides that were too technical for a keynote Removed slides that would take too long Created a cohesive storytelling arc Balanced slide content with speaker notes Developed a bold, attention-grabbing visual design The result? A stunning deck completed in just 2.5 days, giving the speaker three full days to practice and perfect her delivery. More than just a visual makeover, this was about restoring confidence. The speaker now had a presentation that matched her expertise—one that would captivate her audience and reinforce the trust placed in her by the organizing body. Some challenges require more than technical skills—they demand a nuanced understanding of storytelling, design, and human psychology. This was one of those moments. The takeaway? In professional communication, your deck is your first impression. Make it count.

Shape your message like a bonsai - trim away everything that doesn't serve the form. Like a master gardener pruning a bonsai tree, creating clear communication requires both artistry and precision. Each cut must serve a purpose, revealing the true form beneath. Today, I'll share three essential rules to help you 'word-diet' your way to clarity in your communications. Rule 1: The Twin Branch Principle (Reduce Redundancies) Just as a bonsai artist wouldn't keep two branches growing in the same direction, your writing shouldn't say the same thing twice. For example, Before: "Next quarter results for Q2 are available online" After: "Q2 results are online" The pruned version maintains all essential information while eliminating redundant growth. "Next quarter" and "Q2" were competing for the same space – by choosing the more precise option, we create a cleaner line. Rule 2: The Essential Form (Clarity Over Complexity) A bonsai's beauty lies not in the quantity of its branches, but in the power of its form. Similarly, your message should strip away to its core meaning. For example: "Critical Repair Parts & Products Where and When You Need Them" becomes simply "Repairs" The longer version tries to explain every feature and benefit. But like a well-shaped bonsai, the single word "Repairs" contains all the necessary meaning. The details can live in your supporting materials, like roots hidden beneath the soil. Rule 3: The Vital Numbers (Use Data That Matters) Every leaf on a bonsai must earn its place. The same goes for your data. Instead of overwhelming your audience with context they don't need, showcase the numbers that tell the story: For example, rather than saying "Two-thirds of college students change their major at least once," lead with the stark simplicity of "66% Change Majors" This number becomes your focal point – like the dramatic angle of a bonsai's trunk. It captures attention and invites questions, allowing you to elaborate only when your audience is engaged. The Art of Knowing When to Stop Remember Einstein's wisdom: "Make everything as simple as possible, but not simpler." Like a bonsai master who knows exactly when to put down the shears, effective communication requires judgment. Cut too little, and your message remains hidden in the chaos. Cut too much, and you risk losing essential meaning. The goal isn't to reduce every message to its smallest possible form, but to find that perfect balance where clarity and impact reach their peak. When you achieve this, your communication becomes like a perfectly shaped bonsai – nothing to add, nothing to take away, just pure impact. Practice these three rules, and watch your messages transform from overgrown tangles into precision instruments of communication. Download your one page Word-Dieting Tips Need help cutting back? Let's talk before your next presentation.