Whether it's a presentation of results, commercial objectives, training, or even a business pitch, the presentation is the deciding factor in whether or not you win over the audience.
The success of a presentation depends on a combination of different factors:
RULE 1: Don’t skip steps
Define the purpose of the presentation: for whom, when, where, and how you will present. Without this information, it makes no sense to start sketching; you’ll just be wasting your time.
RULE 2: You don't always need a presentation
Just because everyone uses it doesn’t mean it’s the best option for your communication.
ALLCan is an excellent example of this premise. The highly competent speakers use nothing more and nothing less than… pen and paper. And it works!
In digital training sessions lasting more than two hours and without traditional slides, they capture the audience’s attention, and the audience responds very actively in the chat.
RULE 3: Don’t be predictable
Yes, everyone is expecting the typical slides, and you can use them, but with a twist!
Try inserting a video in the middle of the presentation; create a mood board to help them visualize the ideas; play a game with the live audience; draw for the audience; play a song to convey a specific idea…
RULE 4: Watch out for distractions
Be mindful of your presentation animations and humorous moments. If there are too many of these, they can not only distract and confuse the audience but also undermine your credibility.
RULE 5: Be careful with the content
What you take for granted may sound like a foreign language to someone else. The words you use and the way you use them can completely change the meaning of the message. For example, “official”, “employee” and “collaborator” are synonyms, but in the business world their meanings couldn’t be more different.
There are companieslike oursthe use of a web site, which specializes in producing, uncomplicating and presenting content, can be a good solution if the message is important.
RULE 6: Traditional and Good
If you choose to use a traditional PowerPoint presentation, do it very well:
– create your own design (you can use templates, but customize them);
– keep color theory in mind and create contrast;
– use fonts to your advantage;
– when in doubt: cut the text down even further;
– infographics (original ones) are trendy and practical;
– Keep an eye on Rule 3!
RULE 7: Practice
Being comfortable with what you’re going to present and how you’re going to present it is essential for conveying confidence. Additionally, it allows you to test all the materials and anticipate unforeseen events.
Ask a colleague for help and ask questions at the end: did the message get across as you intended?
Ready to start presenting?
