You can nail your next presentation even if you think you can’t. There is a trick to getting it right, and corporate experts use them constantly. You can also learn these tricks for pitching ideas and reports and wowing investors. From learning the script to taking breaks, here’s how.
Provide Supplemental Material
People in presentations almost always don’t want to be there, and they definitely don’t take everything in. The focus and attention of your audience will fluctuate, especially for a longer session. But it can help to provide a summary of your presentation and supplemental data such as graphs and charts. Presenting these well and making them easy to use is also vital. Simple devices like wire binding or folders make it easier for guests to follow your flow as you present.
Learn the Script for a Natural Flow
Further to flow, you need this to be as natural as possible. No one will be impressed if you stumble, stutter or sound like you are reading from a script. Of course, all presentations have a script, and it isn’t too different than a performance. But delivering the performance well is key to keeping attendees engaged, focused, and, above all, awake. Spend as much time as you can perfecting the presentation, and never just read what your guests are seeing on the screen.
Nail Your Next Presentation with Eye Contact
It can be daunting to give a presentation when you aren’t used to public speaking. This is a skill that even the best in the business have to learn. If you do get nervous, you aren’t alone. The National Institute of Mental Health found that 40% of people feel stress when they have to speak publicly. But you can overcome this. Confidence is key, and this can be honed. Look your guests in the eye and change it often. This helps you feel in control and encourages guest engagement.
Take a Break if You Need To
Some presentations can go on for a while, and even a 15-minute one filled with facts and figures can be draining for you and your guests. So, factor in some breaks within the presentation. This is essential for long-winded presentations, as your audience can switch off. Audience engagement helps, but even the most fun events will require bathroom breaks and breaks for food and drink. Space breaks equally, if possible, and try to get them in after long periods of data.
Tailor the Tone to the Audience
No two audiences are the same when giving a presentation. You may have to give the same one to people of different backgrounds, skill levels, and educations. Because of this, you need to change the tone to suit the audience. For example, CEOs and the like love straightforward presentations with facts and actionable data. Yet the same method won’t work well for ground floor employees. Some humor and more explanation of complex data will help you out.
Summary
Supplemental materials that are easy to use will help you nail your next presentation. Eye contact can help you stay confident and engaged, and change the tone for the audience.