From the course: The Pre-Sales Engineer's Guide to Whiteboarding: Engaging Executives to Close Deals

Build an essential whiteboarding toolkit

From the course: The Pre-Sales Engineer's Guide to Whiteboarding: Engaging Executives to Close Deals

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Build an essential whiteboarding toolkit

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- Today, your bag probably doesn't have all the tools you need for a successful whiteboarding session, so let's show you what's in my bag for a day in the life of a pre-sales engineer about to close a deal with a whiteboard presentation. Let's start with the essentials: markers. This may seem obvious, but high-quality markers are crucial. Choose a tip size that suits your writing style, so fine for detailed work or bold for larger text. Opt for markers with vibrant colors and consistent ink flow to avoid frustration during your presentation. Pro tip: test your markers beforehand to avoid any surprises. Next are erasers. A clean whiteboard is essential for a professional presentation. Consider having two options: a felt eraser for broad strokes and a microfiber cloth for more precise erasing. Then you have sticky notes. These versatile tools can be used for brainstorming, organizing ideas or capturing audience input. Different colors can help categorize information or prioritize key points. Now that you have everything you need, let's address how you use these tools because your technique matters. Cadence and rhythm. Think of your presentation as a conversation with pauses. After writing a key point, take a brief pause to allow your audience to absorb the information. This tell, write, tell rhythm keeps your audience engaged and ensures they follow your message. Speed and handwriting. Clarity is key. Slow down and prioritize large, easy-to-read text. The goal is for your audience to understand your message, not decipher your handwriting. Practice writing clearly beforehand, and don't be afraid to erase and rewrite if needed. Remember your whiteboarding toolkit empowers you to create impactful presentations. By honing in on these essential techniques and having all your essential tools, you'll gain the confidence to captivate your audience and drive successful pre-sales conversations.

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