A Series of Small Things
Random Thoughts on Building Venture-Backed Companies in the Midwest
I hate powerpoint
6.25.10 by Dov
I have a strong belief that Powerpoint kills brain cells. Folks like Edward Tufte and Peter Norvig can make the case in a far more compelling way than I, but it never ceases to amaze me how much more (and more quickly) I can learn about a prospective investment or the current status of one of our partner companies by just having a conversation, without the need for bullet points. I had the opportunity to meet with an entrepreneur today and in less than 30 minutes had learned everything about his business that I needed to know from a first meeting… a meeting that with a powerpoint would have taken a fidgety, uncomfortable 60-90 minutes. No slides. No graphs. No bullet points. Just an actual conversation. You know – give and take. Diving in on only the important points (and funny stories).
The next time you have to give a presentation to a group – particularly a small group, try just talking to them. And leave the slides at home.
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