Why Every Live Event Should Feature Memory Darts
Memory Darts make your event so much better - here are three reasons why…
As we begin, I guess I should explain what a Memory Dart is. A Memory Dart (which is a term introduced in my first book, Clarity Wins) is a very brief and vivid phrase that immediately gains attention, turns a light on in the listener’s brain, and creates curiosity.
Memory Darts break through the noise and stick. Unlike an elevator pitche, when you lead with a juicy little sound bite, it compels the listener to ask for more.
A well-crafted Memory Dart is the best antidote to boredom. Here’s an example:
“Charles Hatfield is the Energizer Bunny of conference planners.” What image does this create in your mind? And how much more memorable is it than, “Lily McCoy actively leverages all available tools and processes to create optimal event results.” That’s boring and forgettable language.
In fact, the term “Memory Dart” is, itself, a Memory Dart. It uses an imagination-provoking picture to get the point across and create a bit of intrigue. In my writings, workshops, keynotes, and consulting, I show how to create Memory Darts throughout all of your communications (they are the most brain-friendly way to get to the point).
Here’s how Memory Darts can be the event planner’s best friend - well, OK, maybe a valued colleague!
Equip all attendees to develop an Introduction Memory Dart to enable far more confident networking. How? One way is to have a quick Memory Dart session early on in the event to help every person in the room move away from boring elevator pitches or bare information exchanges into personalized “storytelling” engagement. I call this interactive exercise a “pre-note” and it can be performed in 30 minutes. Immediately, everyone meets new peole and dives into networking for more confidently and enjoyably.
Equip all vendors/sponsors to sum up their key message in a Branding Memory Dart. Let’s face it - the exhibit area is a confusing and noisy environment and few vendors know how to skillfully present their differentiating message in a few moments. Any company should be able to pique interest and summarize their key value in under 45 seconds with an attention-grabbing phrase or two.
Equip all speakers to sprinkle effective Memory Dart statements and illustrations throughout their presentations. Winning and keeping attention is gold, and if the minds of the attendees are not skillfully engaged with illustrations, analogies, sound bites, and summaries, the session won’t get high ratings. The point won’t get made. Nobody wins when presentations (especially by event sponsors) are boring or confusing.
All the best communicators throughout history have used memory dart methodology to move their audiences. But the principles and practices are for everybody, as I’ve outlined in my two books.
Clarity wins. Confusion loses. There’s a golden opportunity to make any event stand out with clear, attention-grabbing messaging. I’m here to help. Reach out (steve at clarityfuel dot com) to set up a chat.
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