How can you improve presenting PR research?

1 Know your audience

Before you prepare your presentation, you need to understand who you are talking to and what they expect from you. What are their goals, needs, and interests? How familiar are they with your topic and terminology? How much detail and explanation do they need? How do they prefer to receive information: visually, verbally, or numerically? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your presentation to their level of understanding, attention span, and preferences.

2 Structure your presentation

A clear and logical structure will make your presentation easier to follow and remember. Start with an introduction that summarizes your main message, objectives, and key points. Then, organize your body into sections that cover each point in depth, using evidence, examples, and arguments to support your claims. Finally, end with a conclusion that reinforces your main message, highlights the implications and recommendations, and invites feedback or questions. Use transitions, signposts, and headings to guide your audience through your presentation.

3 Design your visuals

Visuals can enhance your presentation by illustrating your data, concepts, and arguments. However, they can also distract or confuse your audience if they are poorly designed or used. To create effective visuals, follow these principles: use simple and consistent design elements, such as fonts, colors, and shapes; use charts, graphs, and diagrams that match your data type and purpose; use labels, legends, and captions to explain your visuals; use animations and transitions sparingly and purposefully; and avoid clutter, noise, and irrelevant information.

4 Deliver your presentation

Your delivery is as important as your content and design. To deliver your presentation confidently and persuasively, follow these tips: practice your presentation several times, preferably in front of a mirror, a recorder, or a friend; use notes or cues to remind you of your main points, but do not read from them; speak clearly, loudly, and slowly, using pauses, intonation, and emphasis to vary your tone; make eye contact, smile, and gesture to engage your audience; and handle questions and feedback politely and professionally.

5 Evaluate your presentation

After you finish your presentation, you should evaluate your performance and seek feedback from others. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and improve your skills for future presentations. To evaluate your presentation, ask yourself these questions: did you achieve your objectives and convey your message? did you cover all the key points and provide enough evidence and explanation? did you follow the structure and use the visuals effectively? did you deliver your presentation confidently and persuasively? did you handle questions and feedback well? What did you do well and what could you do better?

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?