Katie is a Management Information Specialist at Westpac Group. She’s skilled in problem solving, data analysis and reporting, customer service and financial planning. Katie is a resourceful team player who loves a challenge and takes satisfaction in completing tasks to the highest possible standard. Here’s what she said after attending Michelle’s Persuasive Presentation Skills Masterclass:
“I love how interactive and creative the course is, as well as Michelle’s enthusiasm. She creates a warm and encouraging atmosphere to turn a subject that makes most people cringe, into an enjoyable and memorable learning experience. I will use position shifting and I will stop saying, ‘sorry’ and ‘but’ in all aspects of my life and will definitely use the Storyboarding technique and 13 step Persuasion Blueprint to prepare future presentations. Michelle, thank you again for all your guidance over this course and your generous offer to review future scripts. You have changed my outlook on presenting and what I am capable of.”
Katie Martin, Senior Management Information Specialist, Data Platforms
What kind of presenting do you do at work?
I have always enjoyed learning new skills and valued personal growth. My role as a Senior Management Information Specialist at one of the Big-4 requires me to collate data, create intuitive dashboards and share results, for a variety of teams across the business. I present data findings to internal stakeholders, requiring me to translate technical jargon into actionable insights.
What prompted you to study with Michelle?
Nerves! Presenting always filled me with dread, and when it became apparent that it’s a necessary life skill and good for my career, I decided to take control and overcome my fear.
I heard that Michelle was involved in an exciting partnership with AlphaZetta (who are delivering a series of excellent development opportunities for Westpac) and decided this was the opportunity for me.
How did Michelle's teaching change your attitude to presenting in business?
Working in data, I like logic and order. Michelle’s three phases for persuasive presenting in business is a formula I can easily apply when preparing for presentations, so I know I am ready and can relax on the day.
How have improved presentation skills impacted on your job and your career in general?
Since completing Michelle’s persuasive presentation class I have received fantastic feedback from colleagues and management, and have gained greater exposure for my work and my team.
Note from Michelle: And I have also heard from management both inside and outside of Westpac that Katie is presenting like a champion these days! Congrats Katie!
In what specific ways have your presentation skills improved since learning with Michelle?
I feel confident and am in control of the room/meeting when using Michelle’s techniques. I appear more credible and my audience is more engaged.
What were your top three takeaways from Michelle's teachings?
– Stop saying ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’
– How to build rapport with the audience
– The importance of stating potential objections upfront, and how to deal with them effectively.
© Michelle Bowden 2022. Michelle Bowden is an authority on presentation & persuasion in business. Michelle is a CSP (the highest designation for speakers in the world), Creator of the Persuasion Smart Profile® (a world-first psychometric assessment tool that reports on your persuasive strengths and weaknesses at work), best-selling internationally published author (Wiley), and a regular commentator in print, radio and online media. www.michellebowden.com.au