Over 10 years coaching senior people with their presentations, we see the same mistakes being made again and again.

(By the way, when I talk about PowerPoint, I mean any similar software programme)

You may recognise some of these mistakes:

Powerpoint Problem #1: Using PowerPoint to Plan

When you hear the word ‘Presentation’ do you rush for your computer?  Instead, why not sit and think for a bit and start planning on a blank sheet of paper?

Powerpoint Problem #1:  Not being clear what you want to say

A good presentation has a clear purpose.  Make sure you can articulate why you are presenting – ideally in one sentence.

Powerpoint Problem #2: Thinking that “the Presentation” is a set of slides

As we always remind people, YOU are the presentation. Your slides are Visual Aids to help you communicate.

Powerpoint Problem #3: Not getting to the point

Be clear at the start of your talk what you want to say.  Don’t leave it to the end.

Powerpoint Problem #4: Long sentences, too fast and hesitant

Be clear, deliberate and passionate.  Make every word count.

Powerpoint Problem #5: Talking for too long

If you can make your presentation shorter, then do.   The work you do condensing it will mean a clearer and more powerful talk.

Powerpoint Problem #6: A weak end

End your talk with a strong call to action or rallying cry.

How not to use Visual Aids badly

We all know what bad presentation slides look like.  And yet we are continually bombarded with them.  

So, instead, make then snappy and clear. You will quicky see how much more powerful they are.  

And, if you bring a slide up only after introducing the topic, it makes you look like a professional.  

In fact, you might be better using no visual aids rather than bad visual aids – many others have discovered this trick.

Have you practised enough?

The best presenters rehearse.  A lot.  Amateurs think that they can wing it.

If you just avoid these mistakes, and start adopting a few simple changes into your presentation preparation you will be be perceived as much more impressive.

If you want more detailed help to become confident and persuasive in your presentations, we would be delighted to help.

Give us a call today on (UK) 020 7018 0922