Seller-Doer Accelerator Module 5: Prepare for Shortlist Interviews and Client Presentations: Make the Human Connection-Seller-Doer Accelerator Module 5: Video

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session closed out ACEC’s Seller-Doer Accelerator with module five on preparing for shortlist interviews and client presentations. Hosted by GraceWorks trainers Rich Swingle and Kyla Stewart, the workshop focused on “making the human connection” in client-facing presentations.<br /><br />The speakers emphasized that the presenter’s only real job is to help listeners get what they need. They introduced six “human connection must-dos”: speak from your heart rather than a script, use notes instead of reading them, bring energy, use purposeful body language, create a “you-you show” centered on the client’s splinters and aspirations, and prepare through a structured practice process.<br /><br />A major theme was that communication is contagious: if the presenter is engaged, confident, and helpful, the audience is more likely to respond the same way. The trainers also stressed trust, commitment, and chemistry as the three qualities clients seek when hiring firms.<br /><br />The second half laid out a 10-step, linear prep process for shortlist interviews, including research, strategy meetings, kickoff meetings, developing bullet-point notes, building graphics after the story is set, and practicing through “ugly,” “less ugly,” and final rehearsals. They advised using simple slides, keeping the focus on one idea at a time, and timing rehearsals carefully. <br /><br />The session ended with Q&A on improving handoffs between speakers, getting teams to buy into the process, and adjusting energy for serious or sensitive meetings.

Keywords

ACEC

Seller-Doer Accelerator

shortlist interviews

client presentations

human connection

GraceWorks trainers

Rich Swingle

Kyla Stewart

communication

trust commitment chemistry

practice process

body language

client-focused presentations

rehearsals

presentation strategy