🧫 Chemistry: Master the art of co-presenting

The ability to co-present is one of the most underrated, overlooked and yet critical presentation skills of them all.

I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that done right, it’s a multi-million pound skill (just ask any co-founding team whose had to raise investment!).

Why? Because co-presenter pitches probably account for 1-2% of all speaker applications. Which means when they come through, they get remembered.

Event curators are always on the look out for fresh formats - it’s why some of our most sought-after speakers in MicDrop are co-presenters.

The problem is, it’s not a skill we get taught.

The result?

1. Zero chemistry

2. Awkward, predictable hand-offs

3. One person dominates, while the other nods

And a talk that would have been better off done with one.

Cue Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas with a 153 second masterclass on how to present with a partner. Watch and learn… 🍿

Notice how they...

1. Build on each other’s content 🧱
↳ One sets up the problem, the other delivers the insight (and vice versa).
 
2. Vary the length of each speaking part 📏
↳ Sometimes short punchy points, other times longer explanations.
 
3. Make the one speaking the most interesting person in the room 🤩
↳ Eyes on the speaker, actively listening and engaging
 
4. Use humour and warmth 🔥
↳ Their playful back and forth is what creates the chemistry.
 
5. Complement each other's strengths 🎭
↳ One focuses on the data, the other focuses on the impact.

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The question is, what should you look for in the perfect presenting partner?

Someone who:
1. Challenges your thinking, not just agrees with it.
↳ It'll make for a better presentation
 
2. Has complementary skills and energy (not identical)
↳ E.g. Big picture vision + sharp, practical insights
 
3. Leans into fun and spontaneity
↳ Off-script is where the magic happens

From experience, the best partnerships start off-stage, long before the speaking slots.

Alex

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