[Image by Gerd Altmann of Pixabay]
Many of the professional clients I assist with public speaking make multiple points but do not use enumeration. Let’s begin by understanding what is meant by enumeration. When a speaker uses enumeration the speaker will say something like “To fully grasp this concept, consider the following three points…” Enumeration may also be reinforced in writing or when using slides by listing various items using numbers like “1. 2. 3.”
Having worked with a wide array of business professionals worldwide to help them sound their best I rarely hear (or see) ideas being enumerated. There are several benefits to an audience (whether they are listening or reading) as well as to speakers, to using enumeration which are:
- It better prepares the audience for what they’re going to hear or read. There’s a big difference hearing (or reading) three vs. ten points.
- It helps the speaker or writer organize their content.
- It makes it easier to refer back to a particular point when seeking clarification (e.g., “Could you give an example of the 3rd point?“)
- It makes it easier for the speaker to stay on topic (e.g. “The first concept is…“)
- It helps to break up a presentation for better retention by the listeners.
- It allows the speaker or writer to sequence their points in a way that makes the most sense.
- For speakers, enumeration can be combined with non-verbal language, if the speaker chooses.
By that I mean, when speakers hold up their fingers as they speak, it helps the audience focus on what they’re hearing. It also makes the speaker more interesting.
Most of the professional clients I assist seem to use bullets (vs. enumeration). While this is quite common, it’s often not as effective to speakers or to listeners. Speakers who want to move through their list may lose track of where they were (was I on the third bullet?) whereas the use of enumeration, particularly if said aloud, makes it much easier for the speaker to recall where they are in their message.
Using enumeration is an easy behavior to include in your presentation, however it does require some practice. It may also slow your rate and we know that’s a huge benefit. So the next time you use bullets, try out enumeration instead and see if it suits you. If you’d like my assistance with this, I’m prepared to help or answer your questions. You or your team may reach me by email ([email protected]) or by phone 518-664-6004.