Required Reading - Presentation Zen

This is the first in what will be an on-going series of book reviews.

Up first is "Presentation Zen," by Garr Reynolds.

  

This was his first of now many books, but it was this book, first published back in 2008, and now in its second edition, that set the standard for how to give meaningful presentation.

Even if you do not give formal presentations, this is still a worthwhile read for any small business owner.  It teaches the importance of clarity, simplicity and being succinct.  Many of the principles in this book can easily be translated to the world of retail and merchandising.

A very easy read with many picture-filed pages.  Garr Reynolds breaks down not only the components of what goes into a good presentation (and what should be left out), it lays out in excellent detail the best practices of how to design, build and give a meaningful presentation that will be remembered after the lights come back on and you leave the stage.

In addition to his own words of wisdom, Mr. Reynolds includes the advice of many other notables in this field.

One of the best quotes in the book actually comes from one of these contributors within the book, Nancy Duarte, president and CEO of Duarte Design:

"If you feel tempted to use a picture of two hands shaking in front of a globe, put the pencil down, step away from the deck and think about taking a vacation or investigating aromatherapy."  -- Nancy Duarte

Well worth your time to read, study and most importantly, learn.

Publisher:  New Riders

List Price:  $29.99 (significantly less on-line)

ISBN:  13: 9780321811981  (Standard 2nd Edition)

ISBN:  13: 9780321820204  (Barnes & Noble Exclusive, 2nd Edition)