Mastering a Financial Presentation

As a CFO I need to express my studies for different audiences, understanding what they expect from me. The board of directors have different backgrounds, perspectives and priorities that I need to observe: their knowledge, concerns, and decision-making criteria. Knowing their profiles I always try to anticipate their questions, doubts and objections.

My spreadsheets have a purpose and scope to direct a main message to the board: the key financial data points, recommendations and actions with a concise objective that aligns with the board's agenda and goals.

The slides are structured in a logical and coherent way. A common format is to start with an introduction that summarizes the background, context, and purpose of your meeting, then move on to the main body that presents the financial data and analysis, and end with a conclusion that recaps the main findings, implications, and recommendations. I prefer to use headings, subheadings, transitions, and signposts to organize and help my audience follow the flow.

The board needs to visualize my data in a clear and effective way. I use charts, graphs, tables, and diagrams to illustrate the financial data, showing trends, patterns, comparisons, and relationships. I like to annotate my visuals properly and explain them in a speech.

In the eve of the presentation I rehearse it several times, preferably in front of an assistant who can give me constructive feedback. I need to check the timing, pace, tone, volume, and body language, making sure they are appropriate for the audience and context. I also need to prepare for potential questions, challenges, or interruptions and have backup slides or notes ready.

The most important item is to engage the audience and make my presentation interactive and memorable. I prefer to use various techniques to capture and maintain their attention and interest, such as storytelling, analogies, examples, anecdotes, humor, questions, polls, and quizzes. I can also invite feedback, comments, or suggestions, acknowledging their contributions. In the end I follow up the audience, sending them a summary or the major subjects of the meeting.