Anyone who gives presentations has had the sinking feeling that comes from forgetting what you want to say. Tweet

It’s the worst possible scenario because you become flustered, embarrassed, and usually fall apart on the spot.

Worse, your credibility is ruined with the audience, who suddenly feels that you don’t know your stuff.

Rick Perry suffered this problem during a recent debate at Michigan’s Oakland University.  The Governor of Texas confidently stated that, if elected President, he would do away with three areas of government.  He rattled off the first two and then … nothing.

Some politicos say this gaffe could cost him the election!

I’ve given over 2,000 presentations and keynote speeches and have developed a near foolproof way to never forget what to say.  I call it, “The Power of Three” and it works like this.

How to never forget what you’re trying to say

When preparing your speech, presentation or debate, ask yourself, “What three things do I want my audience to know?”

Then, hold out your index finger and assign the first item to that finger.  Psychologists refer to this technique as “association.”  Assign the second and third item to the middle and ring finger of the same hand.  Then run down a quick version of the three points, counting down the three items using your fingers.

Repeat the process all the way up to your presentation.  You can practice the power of three in the car, during television commercials, and even in the shower.

Use my power of three technique and you’re not likely to forget what to say when speaking to an audience.

It’s a shame Rick Perry didn’t consult with me when he visited Michigan, eh?

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Get more great tips by ordering Michael’s Present Like a Pro DVD.  It’s a 45-minute video that both shows and tells how you can be much more effective when speaking to groups.  www.MichaelAngeloCaruso.com or 248-224-9667 for more info.