Bippity Boppity Bacon

I just watched Jim Gaffigan’s “King Baby” comedy special. Funny. Dang funny. And applicable. Really applicable to anyone who gives presentations.

Long-time readers of this blog know I’ve talked about applying lessons learned from improv comedy and from how stand-up comedians approach their craft. (So this isn’t new territory for us.)

Presenters and stand-up comedians have a lot in common. Presenters, like comics, must share a unique point-of-view. Presenters must also share their unique point-of-view in a smart way, just as comedians must do. Good presenters and good comedians utilize the power of timing and pauses in their delivery. The very best presenters and comedians go the extra mile by managing to give the illusion of their on-stage performance being a dialogue and not a monologue.

When you watch this clip of Jim Gaffigan’s “Bacon” routine, you'll learn exactly what I'm talking about. Notice how he shares his point-of-view in a uniquely smart way. Also, notice how Gaffigan pauses just enough to add more punch to his punch lines. It’ll be hard not for you to notice how Gaffigan gives the illusion of his routine as being a conversation with the audience. He's a brilliant presenter.

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For extra credit, check out this presentation I posted on SlideShare. It shares more insights on improving your presentation skills by incorporating lessons from the world of stand-up comedy.

RSS Readers ... click here to view the prezo

Comments

[Tyler LeCompte]

Excellent post. As a presenter myself, I have often used the comedic stylings of my favorite comedians as a guide to relax and incorporate an audience's attention to my topic. Also, I do love some bacon!
Thanks again!

Twitter: @tylerlecompte
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tylerlecompte

[jay kubassek]

great article...thanks for the insight and for posting the videos.
much appreciated
jay kubassek

[Jay Ehret]

Great catch on the presentation lessons, John. Answering audience questions is a primary concern of a presenter. I like the way Gaffigan asks the audience's questions for them in his 'audience voice.' They crowd is participating in the act through Gaffigan. And you're right, dang funny.

[john moore (from Brand Autopsy)]

Thank you Jay.

Sincerely,

Water Chestnut III