Sean is the Leading Better Value Care (LBVC) Implementation Manager at the NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation (ACI). Sean both project manages ACI’s component of the state-wide LBVC program and supports the implementation of patient centred Healthcare and Health system redesign. Sean’s work contributes to improving the NSW Health system today and into the future.
What did Sean say after attending Michelle’s Persuasive Presentation Skills Masterclass?
“Outstanding. Many thanks. I enjoyed the thorough approach presented to us to assist us developing presentation skills. I particularly loved the practical; it really helped you get a better understanding of what you need to do.”
What kind of presenting do you do at work?
I often find myself presenting to very varied audiences for a differing range of reasons. I have facilitated planning workshops, chaired panel discussions, given internal staff lectures, presented to Acute Care, Primary Care and community representatives on a range of Health and policy topics; speaking as a representative of the NSW government.
What prompted you to study with Michelle?
Many years ago, in a former career, I worked in the community as a Policy Manager, running national and state social policy campaigns. Michelle was kind enough to support our community activity and I was invited to be a part of a session as a donation to the organisation. Michelle was instrumental in teaching me how to be better at presenting. I even learnt how to hold myself when the spotlight is on me. I attribute much of the social outcome work I have achieved, to her help.
How did Michelle’s teaching change your attitude to presenting in business?
A key thing that Michelle helped me to understand was that presentation structure really matters. Prior to attending Michelle’s masterclass, presentations had been built around what I thought would work and who I believed the audience were. That is certainly not the case now, not only has planning for presentations become more intuitive, the reaction of my audiences has shown that I am really getting key messages across. Rather than dictate, I like to converse through my presentations in a ‘two-way’ style and it’s working.
In general, what positive outcomes have you achieved from improving your presentation skills?
- Well… I now have a glittering career in Health that I never dreamed I would have been able to secure before-hand. These skills help you n interviews too!
- I have presented as a representative of the NSW government, helped to influence public policy and successfully lobbied for a raft of supports and funding for people with disability, including the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
- The training has given me a comfort that has allowed me to shine.
In what specific ways have your presentation skills improved since learning with Michelle?
Michelle has particularly helped me in the areas of presentation planning and confidence. At the end of Michelle’s masterclass I was still not the most superbly confident presenter but it’s interesting that the seeds she planted have led me to speak confidently at conferences, small groups, including groups with concerns that needed to be addressed.
What were your top three take-aways from Michelle’s teachings?
- Pre-presentation warm-up exercises and rehearsal take the nervous sting out of a presentation.
- The 4Mat system combined with Michelle’s 13-Steps is wonderful and everyone should use them.
- As a quiet speaker I enjoyed to learn how to project my voice when I need to and focus it towards my audience.