Like you, I find that many subject matter experts, not just accountants and CPAs, bury their audiences in data. It’s as if they think their data will make their case for them. They don’t seem to realize that overwhelming people with TMI shuts them down and makes them less — not more — willing to cooperate.

I ask them to priotize. From all that you know, what are the most important elements for you audience to know at this time? What do they mean? How do they affect — positively or negatively — your audience? What can your audience do with them?

I ask presenters to keep their supporting evidence available in case people ask for it during the Q&A. Also, they can always give it out as a handout, if they feel compelled to share it.

Best, Chris

How do you spot an extroverted accountant? He stares at your shoes, not his own.