1. Presenter: Elizabeth Campbell

2.  This article discusses how to talk to nontechnical audiences about a technical subject.  The article gives six suggestions on how to accomplish this task effectively: ◦ Determine the goal of the audience ◦ Put your audience at ease ◦ Use analogies ◦ Reconsider each use of jargon or an acronym ◦ Don’t be a techno-snob ◦ Show, don’t tell

3.  It is important to customize your presentation to the needs and technical levels of your audience.  You should find out beforehand what the audience is expected to gain from your presentation, and change your strategy accordingly.

4.  Many people are scared of learning new things for fear of losing their jobs, or just learning the new thing in general. This may inhibit their learning.  Make the audience at ease by injecting some humor into your presentation.  You should also privately determine who is truly scared of learning the new technology and determine what exactly they are afraid of, so that you may address their concern and ease their worries.

5.  Analogies, stories and metaphors are a great way to engage your audience and to help get your point across.  Be sure to tailor your analogies to your audience, however, so that everyone will understand the language you are using, and the context in which you are putting the concept.

6.  Avoid specialized terms and language!  If these terms are unavoidable, make a glossary for your audience, so that they will not be intimidated and lose interest.  Always be prepared to explain any jargon or acronyms that you do decide to use.

7.  Do not be condescending, or assume that something is “obvious” to your audience.  Although something may be obvious to you, it is not necessarily obvious to the people you are presenting to.  You do not want your audience to feel embarrassed about their lack of knowledge in the subject.

8.  Use pictures and visual aids as much as possible!  A picture truly is worth a thousand words.  Having a visual aid can enhance any presentation and will keep your audience’s attention.

9.  Most importantly, show your audience that you are interested in the material that you are presenting.  If you are excited about it, that enthusiasm will spread to the audience, and they will get more out of your presentation.