When you’ve made the shortlist you can congratulate yourselves, relax for just a minute and then remind your team that every firm on that shortlist is qualified to do the work. Now the focus shifts to the people who will do the work and the team dynamics. The selection panel wants to know if team members like one another and do they work and play well together. A “cohesive team” is not something you can write on a slide…it’s something that the panel must see. Here are 3 of the best ways to show them just that!
1. Partner introductions – Instead of a self-introduction from each team member, have them introduce the next speaker. Standing side by side, speaker 1 can brag on speaker 2, mention shared experience and the value that person brings. Speaker 2 looks at speaker 1 and the panel, smiles broadly and stands tall.
2. Shared slides – Speakers appear more cohesive and relaxed when they banter back and forth on the same issue. Speaker 1 can start the topic and then speaker 2 can add an example or a benefit. Both speakers can be up at the front or one at the front and one seated at the table. This requires careful rehearsal but also gets you extra points from the panel.
3. Drop a name – In a short presentation, there may not be time for all team members to speak. As speaker 1 describes their role, they can mention a team member by name to show how work is coordinated. They might mention a team member’s name and specialty relative to the issue they’re presenting and how it will benefit the project. When you drop that name, look at that person and ensure they look back at you.
One more thing. Send your team out to lunch or dinner together as a quick way to bond. Most people bond faster on a personal level as they learn what they have in common.
Laverne A. S. Caceres, M.A. is a nationally recognized presentation skills and shortlist interview coach and founder of The Professional Voice in Los Angeles, California. She and the firm have been featured in the LA Times, the Daily News, SKY Magazine, IOMA’s Litigation Report and on KNX News Radio.