How to Create a Presentation
A presentation is a medium of communication that is commonly used in speaking engagements such as reports and meetings in a certain organization. Creating a business presentation can be done using various software such as Keynote, Google Slides, and Prezi, but Microsoft Powerpoint is the most popular.
Base on a survey by Adam Noar on presentationpanda.com, 89% of people use Powerpoint over other presentation tools. They suggest this because Powerpoint is familiar, simple, and many don't have a choice. In a nutshell, Powerpoint is the standard and it's easy to use. This brief guide will give you insights on how to create an effective presentation that will surely grab the attention of your target audience.
1. Simplify Your Ideas
It is very tempting to put a lot of information on one slide. It could be a way for you to be guided by what's coming next but, the presentation is not solely for you. Simplify the ideas. Your goal is to focus on one concept per slide. Do not confuse your audience. It would be uncomfortable if they keep on reading your long marketing presentation while listening to you. Present the gist of your topic in order for them to stick to what you are trying to convey.
According to an article by Melanie Pinola on lifehacker.com, Powerpoint should not be used as a teleprompter. If a picture is worth a thousand words, show the audience that one picture and, if possible, speak a thousand words, but please don't showcase a thousand words and read them.
2. Locate Your Elements Properly
For a more meaningful presentation, it is a smart idea to designate or locate your elements properly. Do not put graphic designs that are irrelevant to your topic just for the sake of having a creative presentation. It will cause distraction and failure. As much as possible, keep it clear and simple.
3. Include Emphasis
In order to attain an effective presentation, you have to highlight the keywords. Present the main information first before discussing other ideas. Let your audience know what they need to understand by giving emphasis on the important matter.
Pinola on lifehacker.com added that information needs emphasis. Presentation slides should take only 3 seconds. So even with very complex ideas, boil down the findings from that slide or split it up across multiple slides. It is better to flow through your slides. It allows the audience to process them better than staying too long on one.
4. Download Suitable Presentation Template
If you wish to have an easier way to create your marketing presentation, this website is what you're looking for. You are free to download these expertly and beautifully designed samples such as pitch deck presentation templates and Powerpoint templates. Download them on various file formats. Then, modify your chosen templates depending on your needs.
5. Engage with Your Audience
Your presentation is not solely for you. It's mainly for the audience and target market analysis. Your goal is to establish a connection between your message and your audience. No matter how professional and well-organized your PPT presentation is if you fail to engage your audience, it would be useless. Readers need clarity to really understand your message. Do not merely stick on your medium but talk to them, talk with your audience.
Based on an article by Garr Reynolds on www.presentationzen.com, as a presenter, you need to start with a bang. You have to hook your audience early. Grab their attention and sustain their interest. Audiences usually remember the beginning and the ending the most—don't waste those important opening minutes.