How to Get Your Boss's Boss to Understand

The strongest presentations stick with the audience. In music, a final soaring note or dramatic chord cements the experience. Similarly, in business presentations, a powerful conclusion reinforces that the desired questions have been answered.

I apply the 1200-word rule even when I have a 30-minute or 45-minute time slot. Keeping my formal remarks to 10 minutes allows more time for the slot to be more interactive and to focus on Q&A.

Listen closely the next time a technical specialist or a self-proclaimed expert delivers a presentation. The chances are good that they...