Tips for an Impactful Presentation
Do you have a big presentation coming up? Do you need to impress and shine? Here are a few tips on how to make a lasting and persuasive arguement that will not only impress, but gain both professional and personal respect :
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A rule of thumb someone taught me once -- figure out the ONE thing you want to punch on each slide, and hit it hard. Each slide should have something for the viewer/listener to think about and that really connects with them. If it’s just data then, it’s probably not a slide worthy of presenting – so, make each one really relevant, intriguing and persuasive.
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Focus less on content and more on your own personal style to create more of an impact. You’ve got so much energy, enthusiasm,and personality but, sometimes it may get lost in the data and information you are trying to convey. Remember that at least 50% of successful presentations are about chemistry. Your goal is to make them really, really want to work with you – not just because you're smart, but because they want to work with you, personally. I rely on a lot of humor because it is my personal means of expression. For awhile, I tried to get away from it and be more professional, but this came off “stiff.” I encourage you to bring more of your personal style into your presentation to connect more with your audience.
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If you can – get your audience talking and more engaged in the conversation right from the start. If you jump right into the presentation, it makes it much more difficult to find the point of connection down the road. So, as quickly as possible, I encourage you to bait the audience with something that will get a verbal reaction from them – something to get them engaged in the dialogue a bit.
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Dial up your “persuasion” factor. Think of yourself as a salesperson or as a politician. Consider that you are giving a “stump speech” for why they absolutely MUST do what you are asking them to do - it is essential for the health of their business. You have to have conviction, and get them to buy in - hook, line and sinker!
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Don’t forget to introduce your team members and make the intros dynamic and persuasive as well. You must come across as the leader and authority. Again, make yourself sound as interesting as you truly are - an intelligent, vibrant and interesting woman! This should not be difficult because you ARE this amazing woman.. let it shine!
Now that you know the tactics, good luck and knock 'em dead!