Andy Goodman

Since we first began talking to each other, telling stories has been a powerful way to capture attention, engage an audience, and motivate them to act. As we learn more about how our minds work, we’re also discovering that stories are intrinsic to decision-making, shape our view of the world, and guide our daily actions. In his keynote speech, “Change the Story, Change the World,” Andy Goodman will explain why storytelling remains the single most powerful communication tool you possess, and he will offer specific ways your organization can use stories to advance your mission.

It’s a moment that nonprofiteers dream about yet also secretly dread. Whether by luck or design, you find yourself face to face with a VIP – a Very Important Prospect – someone who can help your organization in a big way. Invariably, this VIP (a) is only vaguely familiar with your work, and (b) has only a few minutes to spare. “So, exactly what is it that you do?” the VIP asks, not-so-surreptitiously glancing at her watch. What do you say? What do you leave out? And how do you break through and connect when the clock is ticking? Having studied hundreds of pitches, Andy Goodman has learned that the best pitch almost always answer five questions. The order of the answers and the amount of time devoted to each can vary, but every question must be addressed if you’re going to tell your whole story. Learn how in fun and engaging presentations.

Based on the book of the same name, this speech is designed for anyone who delivers presentations — from grizzled veterans to nervous newbies — or for those who manage people who deliver them. In a fast and furious sixty minutes, Andy Goodman will cover: (1) the major findings from unprecedented audience research in which 2,501 public interest professionals shared their thoughts on what makes presentations succeed or fail; (2) a structure which can help public interest presenters organize their material for greater clarity and impact, giving the audience what it wants, and (3) 7 tips for using PowerPoint more effectively.

Every time you reach out, there are four potential points of connection between you and your target audience. When you know all four points and build your campaign around them, every minute and dollar you invest will have a better chance of paying off. Fail to connect on even one point, however, and you give your audience an opportunity to walk away. And in this “Age of Too Much Information,” most people are looking for opportunities to tune out anything they can quickly categorize as noise. You can learn “The Four Connecting Points” in a 60-minute seminar designed expressly for public interest communicators. We will cover: (1) The basics of framing and strategic communications, (2) Message creation and delivery, and (3) Classic case studies from the public interest sector. Whether you are new to the public interest sector or a long-time doer-of-good, “The Four Connecting Points” can serve as a fast and comprehensive survey course or just a helpful refresher.