Why Your Slides Aren't Enough for Presenting
- Mar 12
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 13
Introduction: The Real Problem with Presentations
Presentations aren’t just about slides, design, or even delivery—they’re about changing minds, inspiring action, and elevating the value of your work. In his electrifying Present to Succeed session, Rich Mulholland calls for a revolution in how we think about presentations, urging us to look beyond the surface and confront the real “dragons” holding us back.
Why Presentations Frustrate Us (and Why That’s a Call to Action)
Rich’s journey didn’t begin with a love for presentations, but with a deep frustration: why are presentations so undervalued, and why do so many fail to make an impact? He argues that this frustration is a sign that we care—and that it’s up to us, as presentation professionals, to change the narrative. When you see presenting as a chance to lead, not just inform, you unlock the power to transform your industry.
The Three Myths (and Truths) of Presenting
“It’s All About the Slides”
The obsession with slide design is like focusing on the garnish instead of the meal. Rich insists that a well-written, well-structured message is the true foundation of a great presentation. Slides are the service, not the main course.
“Delivery Is Everything”
While delivery matters, it’s not the magic bullet. Even a charismatic speaker can’t save a poorly structured message. The real impact comes from clarity of thought and narrative, not just performance.
“Good Enough Is Good Enough”
The biggest danger is the “okay plateau”—the belief that you’re already good enough. Rich challenges us to push past complacency, because in presentations, “good enough” simply isn’t enough. The world needs more than minimum viable presentations.
Selling a Story: The Dragon, the Treasure, and the Real Hero
Rich reframes the classic storytelling model: it’s not about making yourself the hero, but about helping your audience see the “dragon” (the real problem), the “treasure” (the opportunity), and their own role in the journey. The most important character isn’t the presenter or even the hero—it’s the dragon that drives discovery, adventure, and change.
Preparation, Mindset, and the Work That Matters
Great presentations are built long before the first slide is designed. Rich’s process starts with writing and structuring the message, then designing visuals that support—not overshadow—the story. The real work is in helping your audience see the problem, care about it, and believe in the solution.
Q&A: Mindset, Value, and Professional Identity
In the Q&A, Rich addresses questions about the value of presentations, the role of design, and how to elevate your professional identity. His advice: stop calling yourself a “presentation designer”—be a “presentation professional.” Take your craft seriously, and the world will follow.
Final Thoughts: Join the Presentation Revolution
Rich’s closing message is a rallying cry: presentations matter, and it’s time to take them seriously. If you want to change how the world sees your work, start by changing how you see yourself. Decide to lead, inspire, and make your audience the hero of their own story.
Join the Conversation
What’s the biggest myth you’ve heard about presentations? Share your experience in the comments below!
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