Here's how you can present financial forecasts to stakeholders with assertiveness and confidence.

Adopt a confident posture and maintain steady eye contact. Speak clearly and at a measured pace, using a strong, resonant voice that conveys authority. Begin with a concise executive summary that highlights key projections and their strategic implications. Back your forecasts with solid data and rigorous analysis, presenting clear visualizations to illustrate trends. Anticipate potential questions and prepare articulate responses in advance. Address challenges or risks proactively, demonstrating your thorough understanding of the business landscape. Use assertive language, avoiding hedging phrases, and convey your conviction in the forecasts' accuracy and achievability.

Knowing your data sounds simple, but how do you actually go about it? I like to play the hat game, i pretend to be a different stakeholder asking different questions. I then think about how the data I have helps me answer those questions, or what assumptions I have made / would have to make to be able to answer them

To present financial forecasts confidently to stakeholders, prepare thoroughly by understanding your data and anticipating questions. Communicate clearly, simplifying complex information and highlighting key points. Use visual aids like charts and graphs, and structure your presentation logically. Display confidence with assertive body language and clear voice control. Support your forecasts with evidence and scenario analysis, engaging the audience through interactive elements. Highlight past successes and improvements, address risks with mitigation plans, and provide detailed documentation with follow-up meetings to maintain engagement and clarity.

Know you numbers, provide actionable insights and follow-up. Use visualization to illustrate trends and comparisons more effectively than tables of numbers. Leverage predictive AI to enhance forecasts and exceed budget objectives.

you should know your data and how to read them, I always use KISS method (Keep It Simple, Straight) 1. the purpose. 2. historical data. 3. time frame and method.

Unless what you say is relevant for context or making a decision, don't say it. Be mindful and give people to process and ask questions

Keep it relevant to the stakeholders. We often fall into the trap of presenting at a high level to senior execs, however that might not always be the best. Some execs I worked with liked to know the details, so I would have to give them some details at the beginning and reassure them that I know the details to a level that makes them comfortable not knowing them. Then I could carry on presenting at a higher level, and dip in and out of the details as required.

1. Prepare thoroughly: Gather all relevant data, analyze trends, and make sure your forecasts are accurate. 2. Know your audience: Understand the level of financial knowledge your stakeholders have, and tailor your presentation accordingly. Use clear and concise language. 3. Use visuals: Present your forecasts using charts, graphs, and other visual aids. 4. Be confident in your numbers: Know your forecasts inside out and be ready to answer any questions or concerns that stakeholders may have. 5. Anticipate questions: Think about potential questions or concerns that stakeholders may raise and prepare thoughtful responses in advance. This will demonstrate your expertise. 7. Stay positive and open to feedback.

In brief: 1. Know your numbers. 2. Gather all relevant info and numbers and ensure it is reliable and aligned with business objectives. 3. Present it to the right audience. 4. Present it in visual form (graphs,colours..) and briefly (numbers and percentages...) 5. Listen to stakeholders concerns. 6. Maintain confidentiality.