One of my favourite ever presenters is Bill McLaren.
He was a Scottish rugby commentator who was respected and loved around the world.
Bill McLaren had many strengths as a communicator.
His preparation was legendary.
His enthusiasm was contagious.
He came across as incredibly likeable.
But there is one area where he excelled that I want to focus on – his quotability.
He had a way of truly bringing the English language to life.
All his words were effective, but he would often come up with a highly quotable line.
“He’s like a demented ferret up a wee drainpipe.”
“My goodness that ball’s gone so high there’ll be snow on it when it comes down.”
“He’s got great big hands like butterfly nets.”
“They’re like cattle trucks in a shunting yard.”
“Those props are as cunning as a bag o’ weasels.”
In every game I ever heard him commentate, there was always at least one ‘turn of phrase’ that really stood out.
Bill McLaren was unique, but there is one lesson from him you can try for your next presentation.
Imagine you are a reporter, who has to write about the presentation afterwards.
Review your material, line by line.
What line or lines truly stand out?
Are there any you would really like to quote?
If yes, great.
If no, make it your objective to add one in.
Great communicators don’t just inform – they leave a line that lingers.
Bill McLaren had a rare gift for language, but the principle applies to anyone who is presenting: make at least one line memorable enough to quote.
It’s the difference between being heard and being remembered.
For more helpful presentation tips, why not check out the following article on the importance of finding your ‘anchor point’ to help you get ready for presenting…
