How can you use presentation tools to manage stakeholders in a client organization?

2 Choose your presentation tool

There are many presentation tools available, such as PowerPoint, Prezi, Keynote, or Google Slides, that offer different features and functionalities. You need to choose a presentation tool that suits your purpose, budget, and technical skills, as well as your client's preferences and expectations. You also need to consider the format and delivery mode of your presentation, whether it is online or offline, live or recorded, interactive or static. You should select a presentation tool that allows you to create an attractive, clear, and consistent design, as well as to add multimedia elements, animations, transitions, and interactivity.

3 Plan your presentation structure

Once you have chosen your presentation tool, you need to plan your presentation structure, which should include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Your introduction should capture your audience's attention, establish your credibility, and state your main message and objectives. Your body should present your main points, arguments, and evidence, using logical and emotional appeals, and following the rule of three. Your conclusion should summarize your main message, restate your objectives, and provide a call to action. You should also prepare for a Q&A session, where you can address any doubts or feedback from your stakeholders.

4 Design your presentation slides

Your presentation slides should support and enhance your verbal communication, not distract or overwhelm it. You should use simple and readable fonts, colors, and layouts, and avoid cluttering your slides with too much text, graphics, or data. You should use visual aids, such as charts, graphs, images, or videos, to illustrate your points and make them more memorable. You should also use consistent and appropriate branding elements, such as logos, fonts, colors, and icons, to create a professional and coherent image of your company and service.

5 Deliver your presentation confidently

Your presentation delivery is as important as your presentation content and design. You should rehearse your presentation several times, using your presentation tool and any equipment or software you will need. You should also practice your timing, pacing, tone, and body language, and anticipate any technical issues or glitches. You should also prepare for different scenarios, such as having a large or small audience, having a friendly or hostile audience, or having to adapt your presentation to a different context or situation.

6 Follow up with your stakeholders

After you deliver your presentation, you should follow up with your stakeholders, to reinforce your message, address any outstanding issues, and maintain a positive relationship. You should send a thank-you email, with a copy of your presentation or a link to it, and ask for feedback or suggestions. You should also monitor and measure the impact of your presentation, using metrics such as views, clicks, conversions, or satisfaction ratings. You should also update your stakeholders on the progress and outcomes of your project or service, and offer additional support or information if needed.

7 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?