Stunning examples

There are many ways in which we can show what we mean or to illustrate a point, rather than say ‘For example …’.

One way to give examples, although indirect, is to tell stories. This gives information in a way which is easier to understand, which dramatises a situation and makes it more interesting.

Don’t repeat for example every time you give an example. Instead, excite your audience with colour and depth:

Sample
We use sample to talk about a small part or quantity to show what the whole is like:

• Let me give you a sample of our new product range.

Instance
We use this when giving a single occurrence of something or for a particular case:

• Here’s a fantastic instance of how our service can help small businesses.

Case
Used as an instance of a particular situation:

• In many cases, we help customers when they need it most.

Illustration
We use this to clarify our example:

• Our standards are not as good as we think. The cleanliness of our public areas is a good illustration.

• To illustrate, you only need to use 10ml, that’s 50% less than before, while achieving the same result.

A case in point
Used as an instance or example that illustrates what is being discussed::

• Customer satisfaction is a case in point. We need to make improvements as there have been complaints about the quality of our furniture.

• Mr. Smith’s issues are a case in point.