top of page
daraghknox

Presentations to an audience in a business setting - Communication tips for you

Updated: Oct 23


Communication Tips


Delivering presentations in a business environment is a popular method for updating progress or introducing new concepts. Therefore, what strategies are effective in influencing, informing, and building consensus on ideas or innovation?


A person presenting to their colleagues
The purpose of the on-screen presentation is to provide pointers


Consider these useful tips to boost your confidence and enhance your communication style.


  • The purpose of the on-screen presentation is to provide pointers, summaries, topic headlines, data, and visuals. As the presenter, your role is to elaborate on the subject matter, using the slides or deck as a background reference to help the audience stay focused on the topic.

  • The content on the slides must be accurate, correct, and factual. Data presented should be verified for accuracy beforehand. Absolute accuracy is crucial as it builds trust, whether the news being reported is positive or negative. I have observed numerous well-crafted presentations falter due to a single piece of incorrect data, which captures the attention of the detail-oriented audience members, leading to discussions, debates, and corrections that detract from the presenter's main message.

  • Grasping the subject matter is essential. While it's impossible to know everything, it's important to conduct research beforehand. Well-prepared presenters will predict potential audience questions and include these considerations in their research. It's acceptable not to have all the answers; saying "I'll look into that" is fine. However, the issue arises when presenters use this phrase to avoid the question. It's crucial to follow up after making such a statement. Engage with the inquirer once you've found the answer, as this builds confidence and trust for future presentations.

  • Considering the sensitivity of the information, it may be beneficial to share the presentation with your audience a few days in advance to foster collaboration. This approach allows the audience to review the content, acquaint themselves with the material, and formulate questions. It can also facilitate addressing potentially challenging questions early on, which is particularly advantageous when presenting to an executive audience.


A person who is afraid
Feeling nervous before giving a presentation is quite common

  • Face the audience and be familiar with the on screen presentation so that there is a connection between you and the listeners. It's no harm to rehearse a few key sentences and the key messages you want to get across. Humour is tricky in a professional environment so steer clear. Keep it professional and true to your own style.

  • Feeling nervous before a presentation is quite common. Standing in front of an audience isn't easy for everyone, so having a hard copy of your presentation nearby can be reassuring. Memorizing the opening sentences can also help alleviate nerves and provide a comforting start. If you don't have an enthusiasm, interest or a conviction about the subject matter, it's very difficult to portray these to an audience, so get interested, research, gather information, look for interesting angles.


Here are some things to avoid:

  • Providing incorrect information

  • Avoid being dishonest - facing problems openly is better than hiding or covering them up

  • Shifting blame to others to deflect pressure from yourself or your team

  • Remembering to maintain pleasantries at the beginning and end



30 views1 comment

1 Comment

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating
Guest
6 days ago
Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

I'll give this a go. Thanks

Like
bottom of page