??Always wanted to be a conference rockstar??? Our director Paul gives us his take on what makes a successful business presentation.
???? Rock Your Presentation Like a Pro! ????
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I’ve been lucky enough over the last 30 odd years in events to see some absolutely stunning presentations (and maybe a couple of car crashes along the way!) ….. so I’ve been reflecting this month about what makes a good presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just getting started, I reckon there are a few things worth considering to help craft genuine, compelling presentations that pack a punch!
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???? Know your audience -?I think that the first thing is to dive deep into understanding who you’ll be speaking to. Clients? Employees? Industry? What are their pain points? What are they passionate about? It is vital to make sure that your content is tailored to resonate with their needs and interests.
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???? Know what you want to achieve -?Define what you want to achieve with your presentation. Whether it’s to educate, inspire, deliver a serious business message … or even just to entertain. This is a really good anchor point to keep referring back to as you write your presentation.?
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???? Use authentic content?– Some of the most engaging presentations I’ve seen share real-life situations, challenges, and triumphs that the audience can relate to. Speak about family and friends (if you’re comfortable with that) and talk about real situations. Authenticity breeds connection and trust, making your message more impactful and memorable.
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???? Use compelling stories?- Weave engaging stories throughout your presentation to captivate your audience’s attention. Whether it’s a personal anecdote or a customer success story, stories add depth and emotion to your message. Even the most figure heavy presentations (Let’s say the latest company EBITDA report!!!!!) can be brought to life with a compelling story or 2!
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???? ‘Light and shade’?– Just like a really good song or a piece of theatre … a really good presentation uses light and shade throughout the delivery. Changes of tone, speed or mood are really effective in emphasising your message and engaging with your audience.?
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???? Find your presentation style?- Some of the best presentations I’ve witnessed are without notes or lecterns … nothing to get in between that connection of the presenter and the audience. Now if this works for you then great …?but?… if the thought of this keeps you awake at night then go with what makes you comfortable. A nervous and uncomfortable presentation is not a pleasant experience for anyone!?
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???? Use the screen?- If you are planning using slides then keep them clean, visually appealing, and focused on key points. Use visuals and pictures to complement your message and avoid overwhelming your audience with text. (The phrase “Death by PowerPoint!” is used for very good reason you know!) Remember, your slides should enhance, not distract from your presentation. Also don’t be afraid to ask your technical team or production company to use live camera to help emphasise important messages - if the entire audience can see the ‘whites of your eyes’ when you’re talking to them it makes the message far more personal.?
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???? Practice - Practice - Practice?- Rehearse your presentation until you’re comfortable and confident. This doesn’t have to be onstage or even out loud - some of the best presenters I’ve witnessed walk the stage whilst talking through their presentations in their own head! Either way pay attention to your tone and pace, body language and stage position. Authenticity shines through when you’re well-prepared and at ease on stage.
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???? Deliver with passion?- Let your passion for the topic shine through in your delivery. Speak from the heart, and your enthusiasm will be contagious. Authenticity and passion are a powerful combination that resonate … and it will be reflected back by audience.
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???? End big!?- Close your presentation with a strong and clear call to action that inspires your audience to take the next step. A clear call to action makes it easy for the audience to act on your message.
???? Watch yourself back?- Days after your presentation make time to watch it back. Now I know that this may well be a ‘Cringefest’ for some - but a constructive look back at your presentation and delivery is key for improvement. (Just be kind to yourself!)
?So there you have it!?Remember, great presentations don’t happen by accident – they are the result of careful planning, preparation, and practice.
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Now be empowered …. go out there and rock that stage like the superstar you are!
Owner at Magia Events Ltd
8 个月??
Heard but never seen. Not your ordinary voice artist: 'The Voiceologist' for live events, a voice presenter that cuts through the noise. Specialist in awards shows, also skilled at corporate, tv, radio, coronations..
8 个月Agree with every word. I would add to the 'Practice practice practice' section that rehearsing out loud is absolutely vital - to a video camera, to a trusted person, or even to an empty room. It's remarkable how something that looks perfectly clear and elegant in writing can be confusing or even impossible to say out loud. I learned this from a very senior BBC newsreader who used to declaim the bulletin to the corridor on his way to the studio, and at least once I saw him stop mid-corridor and write in a revision. For anyone aiming at presenting from notes or memory rather than from script, the same applies but probably even more so.