HUMAN-FIRST PRESENTING: HOW PEER PRESSURE POWERED OUR MOST PERSONAL LEARNING JOURNEY YET.

The Techniques: What We Learned  

This wasn’t just about speaking, it was about experimenting, practicing and learning from each other. 

Here are just a few of the excellent techniques used: 

• Start strong: cold opens, bold (sometimes shocking) stats, surprising questions 

• Structure it well: use a classic story arc presenting a situation, complication, solution 

• Use a visual motif: anchor your message with recurring images or phrases 

• Show yourself: speak with honesty, vulnerability, even nerves 

• Stay present: breathe, pause, slow down and keep a pace to command the room 

• Make it visual: props, maps, movement, and imagery help messages land and resonate 

Why Presenting to Peers Supercharges Learning 

There’s something about presenting to your inner-circle that changes everything. 

• The stakes feel higher, but the space feels safer 

• You’re more exposed but also more supported 

• You absorb more because you know you’ll have to share it back 

One person summed it up: 

“I actually enjoyed it after dreading it for so long. I’m really keen to do more like this!” 

What’s Next? 

This wasn’t a one-off. Human-first presenting is something we’ll keep practising and keep bringing into our client’s work. 

Because whether you’re talking about sugar snap peas or strategy, great presenting starts with real connection. 

Curious to know more about Verve’s L&D programme? Watch and read the interview between Managing Director Dom and Jules, our Senior Account Director and Learning & Development Lead here.