- Scott Stiefvater
What does your agenda slide do for me? Not much.
Updated: Nov 25, 2020

Why show me your agenda at the beginning of your presentation?
It shows me you have a plan. Now I know you are somewhat competent as a professional.
It shows me what to expect. Now I know this meeting won't be a waste of time. Or maybe, now I know it will be.
It shows me what's not in the plan. ...and if you also ask me what I would like to add, I might get you to squeeze in what really matters to me.
It shows me we have a lot to cover. Now I know I should worry along with you about avoiding depth and moving fast.
It shows me I will get a chance to ask questions. Now I know how long I will have to suspend my thinking while you cover your content.
Skip the agenda and make the most of our time from the very start.
I trust you have a plan. What I'm really hoping is:
It's a good plan but it is not set in stone.
You know your stuff enough to curve where I need to go.
You have the guts to abandon the plan if it helps us to derive more meaning and relevance for everyone.