Subsitute for stories

What do you do if you are preparing a presentation and don't have a relevant, personal story to make your point?

Here are two tips for you:
1. Use an example to illustrate your point. For example, if you are illustrating the widespread use of slides in today's presentations, use the audience as an example and ask "Raise your hand if you use PowerPoint in your presentations".
2. Relate a well-known story, giving credit to the original source. For example, it is OK to relate Steven Covey's story of a paradigm shift, and explain how the story relates supports your point in your presentation. People in your audience may have heard the story before and a good story can be enjoyed many times, just as you enjoy your favorite music again and again. Don't convey another speaker's story as your own.