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99-Second Rapid-Fire Testimonies/Sharing

The General Idea
“99-seconds” is a special type of presentation format that features several speakers (usually 10 or more). Each speaker shares a brisk, self-contained testimony or informational presentation that lasts for up to 99 seconds. A 99-second timer will be counting from 99 to 0 on a screen behind the speakers.

Set Up and Preparation
Must be able to display a timer on a large screen. (The 99-second timer is available for free from http://www.thiagi.com/ or you may use some other software timer).

Instructions
When providing a special occasion for about 10 or more people in the congregation to speak, have a 99-second timer counting down to zero on the screen behind the speaker. This keeps the person from going too long and provides a fast-paced, energized series of presentations.

Tips for This Activity (Organizer)
Topics to consider for using this format:
  • Congregational testimonies of God’s work.
  • Missionaries at a missions convention or denominational event.
  • Introductions of candidates in church elections.
  • Select the speakers in advance of the event. This format will not work well if people get up spontaneously to talk.
Tips for This Activity (Speakers)
  • Choose a single topic, story, principle, or tip to share.
  • Choose something that can be explained to someone in about a minute.
  • Practice speaking with a timer. Although 99 seconds seems like a short time, it is probably longer than one might think.
  • Don't memorize your presentation, but be sure you can recall the key ideas in the correct sequence.
  • Use your imagination to create memorable props or handouts.
  • If necessary, use a couple of PowerPoint slides or create a handout to go along with the presentation. For slides, make sure that each one has fewer than 6 lines and each line has fewer than 6 words.
I saw this presentation strategy demonstrated effectively by Thiagi (aka Sivasailam Thiagarajan) with several other presenters at the 2000 International Society for Performance Improvement annual conference. We have used it for new employee orientations at UPS and I think it would work well in the church setting as well.
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