The close of your speech or workshop is often one of the most neglected parts of your presentation, but also one of the most important. The close is your final opportunity to inspire the audience, drive an action, or change an opinion.
Based on the time left on the clock, I have a number of "go to" closes that I choose from - all of which can be adapted to most topics.
And although I may have used client examples and a variety of design ideas throughout my presentation, during the closing minutes, I also like to bring it home by touching on my personal ties to the topic, which often helps to create a deeper audience connection.
This short video clip is from a Gamification Lunch & Learn with the Austin ATD Chapter - my local chapter where I currently serve on the board as VP of Professional Development.
The illuminator activity at the beginning of this clip is designed to show participants with a quick illustration that even when we think we’re doing our very best, we can usually do just a little bit better. This closing activity which I call Reach for the Sky, is taken from the pages of my Totally Awesome Training Activity Guidebook - Put Gamification to Work for You.
Most people will forget facts and figures, but they always remember stories. And in fact, everyone loves a good story, and they will be more likely to connect with your speech if you tell a true story involving real characters. And even though I've given a similar close a hundred times, because it is true and it is personal, I still find myself getting choked up as I talk about how we rob a child's desire to learn from them.
So what is your "go to" close? I'd love to hear about it, or share a clip with us... we'd LOVE to see it!
About the Author: Monica Cornetti
A gamification speaker and designer, Monica Cornetti is rated as a #1 Gamification Guru in the World by UK-Based Leaderboarded. She is the author of the book Totally Awesome Training Activity Guide: Put Gamification to Work for You, writes The Gamification Report blog, and hosts the weekly Gamification Talk Radio program.
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