How to get to the point: Pecha Kucha
Try a different presentation format to make your ideas come through clearly.
That's me opening my Pecha Kucha talk with a few words about one of my hheros - Harvey Milk.
Among some of the best places to practice public speaking, one of my favorites is Pecha Kucha (say: “Puh-cha-ch-kuh”). This show features presentations of 20 slides shown for 20 seconds each. The slides auto-advance, so the speaker has to keep up - and get their message across in 6 minutes and 40 seconds.
Trying this format is a great way to become a more succinct, to-the-point, and intersting speaker.
Fun fact: Pecha Kucha was created by 2 architects who were tired of sitting through boring presentations!
Read on for more of the benefits. To find a P-K near you, visit their site. visit their site.
Five benefits of using the Pecha Kucha format:
It Keeps Your Message Clear and Focused
With only 20 slides and 20 seconds per slide, Pecha Kucha forces you to get to the point. No rambling, no extra fluff. You’re delivering only the most essential parts of your message, which helps your audience absorb it quickly and easily.
It Engages Your Audience
The fast pace of a Pecha Kucha presentation means your audience never gets bored. They stay alert and interested because the presentation moves quickly. You’re constantly giving them new, bite-sized pieces of information that hold their attention.
It’s an Opportunity to Strengthen Your Storytelling Skills
Pecha Kucha is about telling a story, not just dumping data. By focusing on storytelling, you connect with your audience on a deeper level, making your presentation more memorable and meaningful.
It Forces You to Stay on Track
With Pecha Kucha’s strict format, you’re forced to stay on time and on track. This helps you develop a strong sense of timing and structure in your speaking, which is essential for any successful presentation.
It Teaches You to Use Less Text and More Visuals
Pecha Kucha helps you create synergy between your slides and your spoken words. In a true Pecha Kucha, you’re supposed to use images only - little or no text. Your images support your message, not distract from it, ensuring a clear and cohesive presentation.
Pro tip: Use images that remind you of what you want to say, or the point you want to make.
Pecha Kucha is a great tool to add to your presentation toolkit—whether you’re new to public speaking or a seasoned pro looking to sharpen your skills.
Hey there! Want to learn the Pecha Kucha format, or just practice a presentation and get expert feedback?
You can directly book an hour of time with me here. We can discuss your presentation, work on improving your deck, or practice for an hour!
Ps - New Half-Hour practice sessions are available if you have a completed presentation! Book your express practice session here. Book your express practice session here.
What to read or hear next:
My talk with Randy Ford on “How to Write a Better Bio”
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For Women Only: Three Speaking Tips
About The Author
Hi! I’m Marianna. I can help you rock your next presentation (or Pecha Kucha!). And yes, I’ll give you LOTS of practice and feedback. I have coaching on demand available!
I make public speaking easier (and fun!) for my clients. In addition to Presentation Skills workshops, I offer executive coaching and Keynote speeches. To learn more, schedule a call with me.