4 Steps to a Powerful Presentation

Photo of author

(Newswire.net — December 13, 2022) — Are you a business professional who wants to get serious about delivering excellent presentations? You may have mastered all the technology and logistics of setting up the room, making informative graphics, and creating a digital presentation from the ground up. Those are all important skills, but the make-or-break component, where the rubber meets the road, is in the actual delivery before a live or video-linked audience. It’s human nature to be nervous, but there are several very effective ways to work around those emotions and get the job done in top form. 

In addition to using enhanced spreadsheets for maximum effect and keeping textual written content to a minimum, work on memorizing the verbal portions of the project. Plus, those who are new to speaking in front of others should remember to use examples instead of theories when explaining complex concepts. Question and answer segments, in the middle and at the end, are sure-fire tactics for keeping everyone’s attention and livening up the discussion. If business presentations give you the jitters, review and practice the following techniques, and be confident in your ability to improve.

Use Enhanced Spreadsheets

GPU spreadsheets offer multiple advantages over CPU versions, primarily because the former utilizes more of the computer’s graphics capabilities than traditional CPU spreadsheet technology. For anyone who must give a formal talk or presentation, understanding GPU vs CPU is an essential first step. The core concept is that software that leverages the power of a computer’s graphics processing unit (GPU) has the advantage of higher speeds as well as a greater scale of calculations. Whenever you have a choice, elect to use GPU spreadsheets for any public demonstrations, talks, lectures, or informal Q and A sessions.

Minimize Written Content

Spreadsheets, graphics, illustrations, and artistic renderings are much better forms of communication than raw, dry text. This principle is particularly relevant for speaking and presenting to groups of people. Regardless of the topic or situation, viewers and audience members prefer to see visuals instead of written words on a page. Keep this idea in mind when crafting your materials, and you’ll get more positive feedback. Plus, the entire production will be more enjoyable and informative for those who watch it.

Memorize the Outline

Avoid using notes as cues for main points. Instead, make a detailed outline of what you wish to say, and memorize it. Memorization is the most time-consuming portion of the preparation, but it pays huge dividends. Audience members pay much closer attention to a presenter who does not rely on notes. If you’re not great at memorizing, there’s a workaround. Consider using your presentation slides, with written keyword content, as general outlines of your main points. That way, you can build the outline into the formal part of the display and take cues from there.

Q & A Segments

Presenters who don’t use question-and-answer sessions are missing out on a significant way to improve their performance. Taking questions demonstrates confidence in the material, but it also engages people and makes them part of the event. When reviewing theories and principles, strive to use examples instead of raw ideas. The human brain prefers spelled-out situations, even hypothetical ones.