Useful technology that just works

I love using my iPad. As a matter of fact I’m using it right now!

I’m lying down on my couch typing this post with a few fingers, on a virtual keyboard. I admit, it’s maybe not the best way to compose a blog post via an iPad. However, it works and the proof is in the pudding as your reading it.

What you may not know, is that I’m also projecting from my iPad, an SBS on demand program, via my Apple TV onto my main television. It’s sitting in the background still working as I type. To me this is useful consumer technology. Its not something that is glaringly fancy, it just works.

My iPad has altered how I work, how I consume media and my perception of what useful technology is. I can do similar things on my iPhone, but find when not out and about, the iPad is the tool of choice.

Power presenting with an iPad over coffee

There is nothing more magical then being prepared for a meeting with information to back up your arguments. Showing is believing after all.

If you present it fluidly, can direct people from one argument to another and do so, not necessarily through words alone, but through showing of reference information, you can leave your audience in awe. Whats more they may even believe in the story, you’ve just told them.

Pictures, reference articles and video can all aid. Pulling out your trusty Mac Book Pro and firing up Keynote just does not seem as smooth as directing their attention with your gaze and finger to the iPad screen.

If your not prepared though, it can go equally just as wrong.

My tips for power presenting with an iPad are:

• prepare, practice and preload web pages before you present;
• order and start drinking your latte or favourite drink, making sure your guest is to;
• talk a bit, to set the scene and to glimpse current understanding of your guest;
• have the iPad sitting there ready (make sure you don’t need to Enter Passcode when you start using it);
• show them something on the iPad and ask their thoughts about it;
• never go to show something unless you’ve used it before and are comfortable with it;
• don’t hold the iPad up to yourself, whilst talking to them – always let them see what you see;
• make sure you have reception or a WiFi connection before you start, if you need it;
• use your fingers and gaze to hold and direct them; and
• smile, be confident, believe in your technology and yourself.

After practicing a couple of times, you’ll be amazed at how many people will comment positively afterwards. Having the iPad there and not a folder full of handouts is very powerfull. Once they see, you have all the information at your finger tips, they really do trust what you are saying. It becomes hard for them, to direct  the conversation away from the conclusion you are seeking. But like anything, it takes a bit of practice to get the technique correct. So enjoy the latte drinking!