characteristics of an effective presentation

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What makes an effective presentation + effective presentation strategies

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Anete Ezera August 15, 2022

Presenting is not everyone’s forte, but it’s an important skill that can help you get a job, get a promotion, influence a decision, persuade a large group, and make people understand your point of view. It’s a powerful way to gain control and make your voice heard. If you do it right, you’ll love presenting. However, if your presentation isn’t engaging or easy to follow, you’ll start seeing people’s attention drift away, and eventually, you’ll want it to be over as soon as possible. 

You’ve probably seen some fascinating presentations and some boring presentations. Could you spot the difference between them? What was it that made the engaging presentations effective? 

In this article, we’ll explore what makes an effective presentation, and what preparation you need to do to make sure that your presentation will be a success. We’ll also pinpoint 4 highly-useful tips on how to give an effective presentation. 

Keep reading to learn how to make an effective presentation. 

What makes a presentation effective

An effective presentation keeps you hooked the whole time, no matter whether you watch it online or in person.  There are multiple examples of effective presentations that people have enjoyed listening to. For example, the introduction of the iPhone by Steve Jobs remains one of the most influential speeches. Tony Robbins, an American author, inspired millions of people with his presentation on The Power of Beliefs. If you go through TED talks, you’ll discover several impressive presentations that have hooked thousands and millions of people. 

What do all these effective presentations have in common? Let’s dive into the effective presentation strategies they all share. 

In the list below, discover 5 key elements that make an effective presentation, and make sure to implement them in your next presentation.

#1 Simplicity

Despite what you might think, simplicity can actually be tied to many powerful and effective presentations. In the words of Leonardo da Vinci, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” 

An effective presentation is simple and to the point. Just because you make a grand presentation with many facts and figures and thought-out details doesn’t make it more effective, nor sophisticated, for that matter. What’s important is that your presentation hits the right points and leaves the audience impressed and persuaded by your message.

You want your presentation to be easy to follow to ensure your audience is engaged from start to finish. To do that, remove anything that doesn’t support your narrative or add substantial value to your presentation. 

When speaking, always focus on your main points and avoid drifting away to other topics or irrelevant details. It’s best not to spend too much time explaining complex theories or terminologies. If you must, give concise, brief summaries of the concepts your audience might not be familiar with, but spend the majority of your presentation focused on the information your audience will have an easier time understanding. Another way to touch on a complex topic is to describe it from a new angle, one that might unlock new understanding for your audience.  

When creating your presentation, use a minimal amount of text. Don’t overwhelm your audience with blocks of text. Your presentation content should act as a compliment to your speech and shouldn’t contain a lot of text or difficult-to-read elements. Simplify your presentation with clearly-legible fonts and a coordinating color scheme. Also, remember to choose a simple yet appealing background that isn’t too busy and highlights the visual elements of your presentation. 

In short, include strong text and visuals to drive your points home. Leave the unnecessary bits out. 

#2 Well-defined structure

Have you ever gotten lost when listening to a presentation? One of the reasons might be that it didn’t have a well-defined structure. 

A clear structure is crucial for a presentation to be effective. Giving a presentation is like telling a story. You need to have a compelling beginning that pulls in listeners. Once everyone is hooked, provide an interesting storyline with conflict, heroes, villains, and other enriching elements. In the end, you need to give an obvious conclusion, leaving the audience to discuss the main takeaways.

Create an outline of your presentation before creating the content of it. You’ll have a better overview of what you want to share. To organize your thoughts, create a mind map using Prezi Design . It’ll help you structure your points and decide when and how to share them.

Having a clearly-defined structure will help your audience to follow your story and get them on the same page as you. You’ll feel more confident when talking because you’ll know your talking points by heart, and your audience will feel more comfortable and engaged when listening to you.

Visuals enrich your presentation, help reinforce your words, highlight important points, and keep your audience engaged. Visuals are powerful tools. Used wisely, they can elevate your presentation to a whole new level.

Most people are visual learners – 65% to be exact. Therefore, visuals play an important role in understanding a topic. By incorporating visuals into your presentation, your audience will have an easier time digesting the information. 

Furthermore, visual aids make presentations more enjoyable and engaging. Just take a look at the examples below. One slide contains only text-based information, while the other also has visuals. Which one do you find more visually appealing?  

Images, video, data visualizations, GIFs, stickers, and animations make a presentation effective. Showcase images or videos to highlight an important point, or incorporate animations to add movement to your presentation. You can also add data visualizations like interactive charts and maps to illustrate essential statistics or valuable information. Plus, you can use infographics to diversify your presentation content and make it more attractive. 

You can find plenty of engaging visuals, like images, video covers, GIFs, stickers, and more in the Prezi library. Also, you can create impressive data visualizations by choosing a pre-designed template or starting from scratch using Prezi Design. You can even use this pre-designed template below. 

When adding visuals to your presentation, don’t forget the golden rule – simplicity. You can enrich your presentation with funny GIFs and interesting videos, but don’t overdo it. Add them where they’ll make the most impact and make sense to your audience. 

#4 Connection with the audience

When giving a presentation, you want your audience to connect with you, and you want to connect with them. Ultimately, you want to feel like you’re having a conversation with your friends. 

Creating a connection can be difficult, especially if you’re presenting online. However, you have to find a way to cultivate a bond to make your audience genuinely interested in what you’re presenting. 

One way to do that is by sharing a personal story at the beginning of your presentation to create a more intimate atmosphere in the room. Share something you’ve struggled with or a common problem your audience members can relate to, or tell a fascinating story that reveals your values and experiences. An anecdote your audience will find amusing would also work, just as long as it relates to your topic. 

Storytelling is a powerful way to connect with your audience from the get-go, so think about incorporating a story element into your presentation to generate this connection. 

Making eye contact with your audience members when presenting is key. If you’re presenting to a small group of people, it’s easy, but if you’re presenting to a wider audience, choose a couple of people to make eye contact with. 

When presenting online, make sure to always remain visible to your audience, so avoid sharing your screen and blocking yourself from viewing. Instead, try Prezi Video and display your content next to you on screen while you maintain a face-to-face connection with your audience. People will feel more connected to you and your presentation if they’ll be able to see you while you’re presenting. Discover what Prezi Video has to offer:

#5 Preparation

Being prepared is the key to presentation success . If you practice something long enough, you’ll be able to master it. Therefore, preparation is one of the most important aspects of an effective presentation. It’s what truly makes an effective presentation and empowers you to be the best speaker you can be. 

You might think that public speaking is not your strong suit, but with dedicated preparation and time invested in improving your public speaking skills, you can impress yourself. 

When practicing your presentation, create a mind map to help you memorize the key points, but don’t stop there. Plan out how you’re going to start and end your presentation . Think about which statement or statistic you want to share to start your presentation speech. Also, decide what’s going to be the last statement or question of your speech. The details matter. 

What’s more, consider the technical requirements and familiarize yourself with the equipment. Whether you’re presenting in a familiar setting or someplace new, become acquainted with the equipment and the surroundings. If you’re presenting online, test-run your slides and visuals, especially if you’re planning to share video or audio materials.

How to give an effective presentation

Now that you know what makes an effective presentation, you might be wondering how to apply them. A stunning presentation will make a killer impression only if you deliver it right. Make sure to follow these effective presentation strategies to give a memorable presentation. 

Stay calm and focused

Sometimes, nerves can get the best of you. Your hands get sweaty, your breath shortens, and your heart starts pounding. If you’re not a fan of public speaking, this is how you might feel about presenting in front of an audience. 

Don’t panic. There’s a way to calm your nerves and appear collected in front of your audience. The last thing you want is for people in the audience to notice your nervousness and for you to mess up because of it. 

Try practicing in front of your friends to get acquainted with speaking in front of people. Also, focus on your topic and shut down intrusive thoughts. If you’re focused on the topic, you’ll have less time to think about other people’s thoughts. Lastly, try breathing exercises to calm down right before presenting, and remember that it’s normal to feel nervous – it means you care. Discover other ways to not be nervous for a presentation.  

Read the room

You have mapped out the whole presentation. However, you can never truly know how your audience will feel and react. They might surprise you. 

When presenting, try to notice how your audience responds to what you’re sharing. Before presenting, if you’re on stage or in a meeting room, you might already get a chance to scan the room or even say hi to some people. Read the room to familiarize yourself with the audience. 

Make your presentation a conversation instead of a monologue, if applicable. Ensure that your audience feels comfortable and understood. If you’re presenting online, use the chat function, and ask people to send in their questions. There’s a higher chance they’ll ask a question if they don’t have to be in the spotlight and ask on camera.

Be aware of your body language

Body language can say a lot about how a person feels, and whether or not theyre confident and comfortable. Body language can influence other people’s connection with you. If you’re talking to a person with inviting body language (for instance, a friendly smile, open posture, or eye contact), you might feel closer to them. 

That’s why you need to work on your body language to appear confident and approachable when presenting. You’ll be able to develop a close connection with your audience and appear trustworthy and friendly. 

Make sure you greet your audience with a smile and keep eye contact. Have an open posture and use hand gestures to articulate your thoughts (without overdoing them). If you’re on stage, you can even walk around the stage to develop command of the room.

Choose easy-to-use tools

When delivering your presentation, you want to look and feel confident. Technical mishaps and confusing presentation tools can pose an issue. Make sure you use convenient, good-looking presentation tools that make your presentation look professional and engaging. 

If you’re presenting in a virtual setting, it can be challenging to hold your audience’s attention, and there’s a higher chance of technical issues. 

To engage your audience and create an easy-to-use presentation, check out Prezi Present . You can save time by choosing a pre-designed presentation template or creating a unique-looking presentation from scratch. With Prezi Video, share your content next to you on-screen, which will help you engage your audience throughout your presentation. 

Before presenting, you can go through your slides and even record yourself with Prezi Video to test-run your presentation. As a result, you’ll feel prepared and confident. 

There’s a lot that goes into creating and delivering an impressive presentation. However, a few key elements make the greatest impact on your presentation. Follow these points and check out 14 effective presentation tips to further improve your presentations. Also, if you’re presenting online, familiarize yourself with the virtual presentation framework by Micheal Lee to impress your virtual audience. 

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How to Make a “Good” Presentation “Great”

by Guy Kawasaki

Summary .   

A strong presentation is so much more than information pasted onto a series of slides with fancy backgrounds. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others. Here are some unique elements that make a presentation stand out.

• Fonts: Sans Serif fonts such as Helvetica or Arial are preferred for their clean lines, which make them easy to digest at various sizes and distances. Limit the number of font styles to two: one for headings and another for body text, to avoid visual confusion or distractions.
• Colors: Colors can evoke emotions and highlight critical points, but their overuse can lead to a cluttered and confusing presentation. A limited palette of two to three main colors, complemented by a simple background, can help you draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the audience.
• Pictures: Pictures can communicate complex ideas quickly and memorably but choosing the right images is key. Images or pictures should be big (perhaps 20-25% of the page), bold, and have a clear purpose that complements the slide’s text.
• Layout: Don’t overcrowd your slides with too much information. When in doubt, adhere to the principle of simplicity, and aim for a clean and uncluttered layout with plenty of white space around text and images. Think phrases and bullets, not sentences.

As an intern or early career professional, chances are that you’ll be tasked with making or giving a presentation in the near future. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others.

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What are the 10 Qualities of a Good Presentation?

The 10 qualities of a good presentation include creativity, self-confidence, storytelling, active listening, knowledge, using visual aids, engaging the audience, body language, eye contact, and the use of a clear and impactful human voice. In today’s competitive business world, being able to deliver a good presentation is a valuable skill that can set you apart and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Whether you’re pitching a new product, presenting a report, or delivering a speech, a good presentation requires certain qualities to ensure its effectiveness. One of the key qualities of a good presentation is creativity. Being able to think outside the box and present information in an engaging and unique way can capture the attention of your audience and make your presentation memorable.

Additionally, self-confidence plays a crucial role in delivering a successful presentation. Confidence in your abilities and in the content you’re presenting helps to establish credibility and build trust with your audience. Storytelling is another important quality of a good presentation. Using narratives, examples, and anecdotes can help to create a connection with your audience and make your message more relatable and memorable. Active listening is also essential, as it allows you to understand the needs and interests of your audience, tailor your presentation accordingly, and respond to questions or feedback effectively. Having in-depth knowledge of the topic you’re presenting is crucial for a good presentation. Being well-informed and prepared not only enhances your credibility but also allows you to provide valuable insights and answer questions confidently. In addition, the use of visual aids such as charts, graphs, and images can enhance the clarity and impact of your presentation. Engaging the audience through interactive activities, asking questions, or involving them in discussions can create a dynamic and memorable experience. Body language and eye contact are important non-verbal communication cues that can convey confidence, attentiveness, and sincerity. Maintaining eye contact with your audience helps to establish a connection and keeps them engaged throughout the presentation. Finally, using a clear and impactful human voice is essential for effective communication. Speaking clearly, using appropriate volume and tone, and utilizing pauses for emphasis can enhance the delivery of your message and make it more compelling. A good presentation requires a combination of creativity, self-confidence, storytelling, active listening, knowledge, visual aids, engaging the audience, body language, eye contact, and a clear and impactful human voice. By incorporating these qualities into your presentations, you can deliver a memorable and impactful message that resonates with your audience.

Table of Contents

Introduction To Good Presentations

Good presentation skills encompass qualities such as creativity, self-confidence, storytelling, learning, knowledge, active listening, body language, eye contact, and a clear and confident human voice. Incorporating these qualities can help deliver a powerful and impactful presentation that captivates the audience.

Importance Of Delivering A Good Presentation

Delivering a good presentation is essential for effectively conveying information and ideas to an audience. Whether you are presenting in a professional setting, academic environment, or any other context, a good presentation can make a significant impact. Here are some reasons highlighting the importance of delivering a good presentation:

• Engages the Audience: A well-delivered presentation captures the attention of the audience and keeps them engaged throughout. It creates a connection between the presenter and the listeners, facilitating better understanding and retention of the information presented.
• Builds Credibility: A good presentation showcases the presenter’s knowledge and expertise on the subject matter. It helps establish credibility and trust among the audience, making them more receptive to the ideas shared.
• Enhances Comprehension: An effective presentation utilizes visual aids, storytelling techniques, and clear explanations to simplify complex information. This ensures that the message is easily understood by the audience, increasing their comprehension and learning.
• Influences Decision Making: A well-structured presentation has the power to influence the audience’s opinions, attitudes, and decisions. It can motivate them to take action, support a cause, adopt new ideas, or make informed choices.
• Demonstrates Professionalism: Delivering a good presentation showcases professionalism and competence. It reflects positively on the presenter’s abilities and can lead to increased opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.
• Fosters Effective Communication: Presentations provide a platform for effective communication between the presenter and the audience. Through verbal and non-verbal cues, a good presentation facilitates the exchange of ideas, encourages dialogue, and promotes understanding.
• Saves Time: Well-organized presentations help convey information efficiently, saving time for both the presenter and the audience. It allows for the dissemination of key points concisely and effectively, cutting down on unnecessary repetition or confusion.
• Inspires and Motivates: An impactful presentation has the potential to inspire and motivate the audience. It can ignite their passion, spark creativity, and encourage them to think critically and innovatively.
• Generates Interest and Attention: A good presentation captures the interest and attention of the audience from the beginning. It makes use of captivating visuals, compelling storytelling techniques, and interactive elements to create an engaging and memorable experience.
• Leaves a Lasting Impression: A well-delivered presentation leaves a lasting impression on the audience. It ensures that the key messages and takeaways are remembered long after the presentation has ended.

Remember, delivering a good presentation requires careful planning, preparation, and effective delivery techniques. With the right qualities and approach, you can create presentations that captivate, inform, and inspire your audience.

Credit: www.pbcexpo.com.au

1. Clear And Concise Structure

A good presentation should have a clear and concise structure, with each point presented in a brief and easily understandable manner. This ensures that the audience can follow along and easily grasp the key information being presented.

Organizing The Presentation Logically:

A good presentation should have a clear and concise structure that allows the audience to follow along easily. The organization of the content plays a crucial role in delivering a successful presentation. Here are some key points to consider when organizing your presentation:

• Clearly outlining the main points: Start by introducing the main points or topics you will cover in your presentation. This provides a roadmap for your audience and helps them understand what to expect.
• Using effective transitions between sections: Use transitional phrases or sentences to smoothly move from one point to another. This helps maintain the flow of your presentation and keeps the audience engaged.
• Breaking down the content into sections: Divide your presentation into logical sections to make it easier for the audience to digest the information. Each section should focus on a specific aspect or topic related to your main points.

Remember, a well-organized presentation helps the audience follow the flow of your ideas and enhances their understanding of the topic. So, take the time to structure your presentation in a logical and coherent manner.

2. Engaging Visuals

Engaging visuals play a crucial role in a good presentation. They capture the audience’s attention, enhance understanding, and make the presentation more memorable.

Utilizing Relevant And High-Quality Images, Graphs, And Charts:

Effective presentations can greatly benefit from the use of engaging visuals. By incorporating relevant and high-quality images, graphs, and charts, presenters can enhance their message, capture the audience’s attention, and make complex information easier to understand. Here are some key points to consider:

• Utilize relevant visuals: Choose images, graphs, and charts that directly support the main points of your presentation. Avoid using generic or unrelated visuals that may confuse or distract your audience.
• Use high-quality visuals: Ensure that your visuals are clear, crisp, and visually appealing. Low-quality or pixelated visuals can detract from the overall professionalism of your presentation.
• Enhance understanding: Visuals are a powerful tool for conveying information quickly and effectively. Use graphs and charts to present data in a visually appealing and easily digestible format.
• Use variety: Mix up the types of visuals you use throughout your presentation to maintain interest and engagement. Incorporate images, graphs, charts, and other visual elements to keep your audience visually stimulated.

Remember, visuals should complement and enhance your presentation, not overshadow it. Use visuals strategically to reinforce your key points and make a lasting impact on your audience.

Avoiding Excessive Text On Slides:

One common mistake presenters make is overcrowding their slides with excessive text. This can overwhelm the audience and make it difficult for them to focus on the key message. To create an engaging and visually appealing presentation, follow these guidelines:

• Keep it concise: Limit the amount of text on each slide to a few key points or short phrases. Avoid long paragraphs or walls of text that may be difficult for the audience to read and absorb.
• Use bullet points: Organize your information into bullet points to make it easier for the audience to follow along. This also helps break up the text and make it more visually appealing.
• Use visuals to support text: Instead of relying solely on text, use visuals such as images or icons to convey your message. Visuals can often communicate information more effectively than text alone.
• Utilize white space: Leave ample white space on each slide to create a clean and uncluttered design. This helps focus the audience’s attention on the key points and prevents the slides from appearing overwhelming.

By avoiding excessive text on slides, you allow your audience to focus on your spoken words and create a more engaging and memorable presentation experience.

3. Effective Communication

Effective communication is crucial in delivering a good presentation. Some qualities to consider include knowing your audience, using visual aids, storytelling, engaging your audience, and effectively handling questions and feedback. Mastering these skills can help you deliver a powerful and impactful presentation.

Speaking Clearly And Confidently:

• Use a Clear and Articulate Voice: Speaking clearly involves enunciating your words and using an appropriate volume. Make sure your voice is audible to all members of the audience.
• Avoid Speaking Too Fast: Speaking at a moderate pace allows your audience to understand and process your message effectively.
• Use Appropriate Intonation: Varying your tone and pitch can help convey emotions and add emphasis to key points.
• Be Confident: Confidence in your delivery helps captivate and engage your audience. Practice your presentation beforehand to build your confidence.

Maintaining Eye Contact With The Audience:

• Establish Connection: Maintaining eye contact with your audience helps create a connection and establishes trust. Look at various audience members, avoiding focusing on just one person.
• Show Genuine Interest: Eye contact shows that you are engaged with your audience and value their presence. It helps to keep them attentive and interested in what you have to say.
• Convey Confidence and Authority: When you maintain eye contact, you appear more confident and authoritative, which enhances your credibility as a presenter.

Using Appropriate Body Language And Gestures:

• Open Posture: Maintain an open posture, with your arms relaxed by your side or gesturing naturally. This conveys approachability and invites audience involvement.
• Use Hand Gestures: Appropriate hand gestures can enhance your message and make it more engaging. Use them sparingly and purposefully to emphasize key points.
• Facial Expressions: Your facial expressions should align with the content of your presentation. Display enthusiasm, concern, or excitement when appropriate, as it helps to convey your message effectively.
• Move Purposefully: Avoid excessive movement or fidgeting, but do not remain stationary. Moving purposefully around the stage can help keep the audience engaged and make your presentation dynamic.

Remember, effective communication is essential for delivering a successful presentation. By speaking clearly and confidently, maintaining eye contact, and using appropriate body language and gestures, you can captivate your audience and effectively convey your message.

4. Relevant Content

A good presentation should have relevant content that is tailored to the audience’s needs and interests. By providing information that is valuable and applicable, the presenter can effectively engage the audience and leave a lasting impression.

Aligning The Presentation Content With The Audience’S Needs And Interests:

• Understand the target audience: Research and analyze the audience demographics, interests, and needs to ensure that the presentation content aligns with their preferences.
• Tailor the message: Customize the presentation content to resonate with the audience’s specific interests and concerns. Use language and examples that they can relate to.
• Identify key points: Prioritize and focus on the most relevant information that directly addresses the audience’s needs. Avoid unnecessary details or tangents.
• Grab attention from the start: Start the presentation with a hook that immediately captures the audience’s interest and establishes the relevance of the content.

Providing Valuable And Actionable Information:

• Offer relevant insights: Share valuable information and insights that are directly applicable to the audience’s work or personal lives. Provide actionable tips, strategies, or techniques that can be implemented after the presentation.
• Use examples and case studies: Illustrate key points with real-life examples and case studies to make the information more relatable and tangible for the audience.
• Support with data and research: Cite credible sources and incorporate data and research findings to back up your claims and enhance the overall credibility of the information presented.
• Simplify complex concepts: Break down complex ideas into easily understandable and digestible chunks. Use visual aids such as charts, graphs, or diagrams to simplify complex data.

Offering Solutions To The Audience’S Problems Or Concerns:

• Address pain points: Identify the common problems or concerns that the audience may face and provide practical solutions or suggestions to help them overcome these challenges.
• Demonstrate value: Emphasize how your presentation can directly benefit the audience by solving their problems, fulfilling their needs, or addressing their concerns.
• Showcase success stories: Share success stories or testimonials from individuals or organizations that have applied the presented solutions, highlighting the positive outcomes achieved.
• Encourage interaction: Allow opportunities for the audience to ask questions, share their experiences, or engage in discussions related to the presented solutions. Foster a collaborative and interactive environment.

5. Engaging Opening

An engaging opening is one of the 10 qualities of a good presentation. It captures the audience’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the presentation.

Capturing The Audience’S Attention From The Start

A good presentation starts with an engaging opening that captivates the audience from the very beginning. Here are some effective strategies to capture the audience’s attention:

• Using a compelling story: Begin with a story that relates to the topic of your presentation. Stories have a way of connecting with people on an emotional level and can instantly grab their attention.
• Presenting a shocking statistic: Start with a surprising statistic that highlights the importance or relevance of your topic. This can make the audience sit up and take notice.
• Quoting an influential figure: Begin with a powerful quote from a well-known person that resonates with your topic. Quotes can inspire and intrigue the audience, making them curious to learn more.

The main goal is to establish the relevance and importance of the topic right from the start, ensuring that the audience is fully engaged and eager to hear what you have to say.

6. Interactive Elements

One quality of a good presentation is incorporating interactive elements, such as polls, quizzes, or live demonstrations, to actively engage the audience and make the presentation more dynamic and memorable. These elements encourage audience participation and interaction, creating a more interactive and engaging experience.

Encouraging Audience Participation Through Questions, Polls, Or Activities:

• Incorporating interactive elements in a presentation is essential for engaging the audience and making them active participants in the learning process.
• Ask thought-provoking questions that encourage the audience to think critically and share their opinions.
• Conduct live polls or surveys to gather instant feedback and involve the audience in decision-making during the presentation.
• Include activities or exercises that allow the audience to apply the concepts being discussed and interact with one another.
• By involving the audience in the presentation, you create a more dynamic and memorable experience that encourages active learning.

Incorporating Multimedia Elements Such As Videos Or Live Demonstrations:

• Use videos to provide visual demonstrations, showcase examples, or share testimonials that support the content of your presentation.
• Incorporate live demonstrations to provide a real-time experience and show the practical application of the concepts being discussed.
• Multimedia elements add variety to the presentation and help to break up the monotony of slides or text.
• Videos and live demonstrations can be powerful tools for capturing the audience’s attention and enhancing their understanding of the topic.
• Ensure that the multimedia elements used are relevant, high-quality, and seamlessly integrated into the presentation.

Creating Opportunities For Discussion Or Group Exercises:

• Foster a collaborative learning environment by providing opportunities for the audience to engage in discussions related to the presentation topic.
• Divide the audience into smaller groups and assign them exercises or discussions that require them to apply the information presented.
• Encourage active participation by setting clear guidelines for group discussions and providing prompts or questions to guide the conversation.
• Allocate time for each group to share their insights or solutions with the larger audience, promoting knowledge sharing and a deeper understanding of the topic.
• Group exercises help to create a sense of community and enable participants to learn from one another’s perspectives.

Remember, interactive elements in a presentation enhance audience engagement, make the content more memorable, and promote active learning. Incorporating multimedia elements and creating opportunities for discussion or group exercises will result in a more impactful presentation.

7. Well-Prepared Delivery

A well-prepared delivery is one of the 10 qualities of a good presentation. It involves knowing your audience, using visual aids, engaging your audience, and handling questions and feedback effectively. With these skills, you can deliver a powerful and impactful presentation that leaves a lasting impression.

Well-Prepared Delivery

A good presentation not only depends on the content and slides, but also on the delivery. A well-prepared delivery ensures that the presenter effectively communicates their message and engages the audience. Here are some key qualities of a well-prepared delivery:

• Practicing the presentation multiple times: Practicing helps the presenter become more familiar with the flow of the presentation and ensures a smoother delivery. It allows them to identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes before the actual presentation.
• Familiarizing oneself with the content and slides: A presenter should thoroughly understand the content and be familiar with the slides. This helps in delivering the presentation confidently and clearly conveying the key points.
• Being prepared to handle unexpected situations or technical difficulties: Presentations can encounter unexpected situations, such as interruptions or technical difficulties. A good presenter is prepared to handle such situations calmly and efficiently, without losing focus or composure.

Overall, a well-prepared delivery demonstrates professionalism and enhances the effectiveness of a presentation. It allows the presenter to connect with the audience, hold their attention, and effectively convey the intended message. By practicing the presentation multiple times, familiarizing oneself with the content and slides, and being prepared to handle unexpected situations or technical difficulties, presenters can deliver an impactful presentation.

8. Adaptability To The Audience

Adaptability to the audience is one of the 10 qualities of a good presentation. By understanding the needs and preferences of the audience, a presenter can tailor their content, language, and delivery to effectively engage and connect with their listeners.

Tailoring The Presentation To Suit The Audience’S Knowledge And Background

When delivering a presentation, it’s crucial to adapt and tailor the content to suit the audience’s knowledge and background. By doing so, you can effectively engage them and ensure that they understand and connect with the information being presented. Here are some key ways to achieve adaptability to the audience:

• Assess the audience: Before the presentation, take the time to research and understand your audience. Consider their demographics, education level, professional background, and any specific interests or preferences they may have.
• Use language and terminology they understand: Avoid jargon, technical terms, or industry-specific language that may confuse or alienate the audience. Instead, use plain language that is easily accessible and relatable to them.
• Provide relevant examples: Use relatable examples that resonate with the audience’s experiences or interests. This can help them understand complex concepts or ideas by providing real-world context.
• Address specific concerns or questions: Anticipate and address the audience’s specific concerns or questions throughout the presentation. This shows that you value their input and are actively interested in meeting their needs.
• Encourage interaction: Engage the audience by encouraging questions, discussions, or participation during the presentation. This fosters a sense of inclusion and creates a more dynamic and interactive environment.
• Adapt the pace and level of detail: Gauge the audience’s level of knowledge and adjust the pace and depth of the presentation accordingly. Avoid overwhelming them with excessive information or speaking at a level that is too basic for their understanding.
• Consider cultural and diversity factors: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities, diversity, and inclusivity when tailoring your presentation. Avoid assumptions or stereotypes that may inadvertently exclude or offend certain audience members.
• Personalize the content: Whenever possible, customize the presentation to include examples or references that are relevant to the audience’s industry, company, or individual roles. This demonstrates your effort to make the content meaningful and applicable to their specific context.
• Adapt visuals and media: Use visuals, images, and media that resonate with the audience and enhance their understanding. Consider their preferences and visual learning styles when selecting and designing presentation materials.
• Seek feedback: After the presentation, seek feedback from the audience to assess their understanding and satisfaction. This can help you further refine and improve your adaptability to different audiences in the future.

By tailoring your presentation to suit the audience’s knowledge and background, you can create a more engaging and impactful experience for them. Remember to be flexible and responsive throughout the presentation, ensuring that the content remains relevant and accessible to everyone in attendance.

9. Effective Use Of Time

Delivering a good presentation requires effective use of time. By knowing your audience, using visual aids, and engaging your audience, you can ensure that your presentation is concise, engaging, and impactful.

Managing The Presentation Within The Allocated Time Frame:

• Start by understanding the time limit for your presentation and plan accordingly.
• Break down your content into sections based on the time available for each.
• Practice timing your presentation to ensure you stay within the allocated time frame.
• Use visual aids or slides to help you keep track of time and pace your delivery.
• Be mindful of your speaking speed and avoid rushing through the presentation.
• Rehearse transitions between sections to maintain a smooth flow without wasting time.
• Consider using a timer or clock visible to you to stay aware of the time remaining.
• Adjust your content in real-time if you notice you’re running out of time, focusing on the most crucial points.
• Stay flexible and be prepared to adapt if unexpected circumstances occur.

Prioritizing And Emphasizing Key Points:

• Identify the key message or main objective of your presentation.
• Structure your content to highlight these key points effectively.
• Use repetition and emphasis techniques to reinforce important information.
• Consider using visual aids or infographics to make key points more memorable.
• Use clear and concise language to ensure the audience understands the main ideas.
• Consider using storytelling or real-life examples to illustrate key points.
• Practice emphasizing critical points with your voice and body language.
• Avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information and prioritize the most relevant points.

Allowing Sufficient Time For Questions And Discussion:

• Allocate a specific portion of your presentation for questions and discussion.
• Signal the availability for questions throughout the presentation.
• Pause after presenting each section to allow the audience to process and ask questions.
• Be attentive and actively listen to the questions asked by the audience.
• Encourage participation by creating a safe and inclusive environment for discussion.
• Allocate enough time for each question to be fully addressed.
• Clarify any potential misunderstandings and provide further explanations if needed.
• Summarize and reiterate key points discussed during the Q&A session.
• If time is limited, suggest alternative ways for the audience to reach out with further questions or follow-up.

Remember, managing time effectively, prioritizing key points, and allowing for questions and discussion are critical aspects of delivering a good presentation. By following these guidelines, you can engage your audience and ensure a successful presentation.

10. Conclusion With A Call To Action

Deliver a powerful and impactful presentation by incorporating these 10 qualities: creativity, self-confidence, storytelling, continuous learning, knowledge of the subject matter, good presentation skills, active listening, body language, eye contact, and a clear and confident voice. Wow your audience with these essential skills.

Summarizing The Main Points And Key Takeaways

• A good presentation should leave the audience with a clear understanding of the main points and key takeaways.
• It should effectively summarize the information presented and highlight the most important aspects.
• By providing a concise recap, the audience can easily remember and recall the main points after the presentation.
• Summarizing the main points and key takeaways helps reinforce the message and ensures that the audience’s comprehension is retained.

Inspiring The Audience To Take Action Or Consider The Presented Ideas

• A good presentation should not only inform but also inspire the audience to take action or consider the ideas presented.
• It should motivate the audience to think differently, challenge their existing beliefs, or adopt new behaviors.
• By presenting compelling arguments and real-life examples, the speaker can ignite a desire within the audience to take action.
• Inspiring the audience to act or consider the presented ideas is crucial for the success and impact of the presentation.

Providing Clear Next Steps Or Resources For Further Engagement

• After delivering a powerful presentation, it is important to provide the audience with clear next steps or resources for further engagement.
• This could include recommending relevant books, articles, or websites for additional learning.
• The speaker can also encourage the audience to participate in follow-up activities, such as workshops, webinars, or discussions.
• By providing clear next steps or resources, the audience can continue their journey of exploration and learning beyond the presentation.

A good presentation should be summarized to ensure the audience retains the main points. It should also inspire the audience to take action or consider the presented ideas by presenting compelling arguments and real-life examples. Additionally, providing clear next steps or resources for further engagement allows the audience to continue their learning journey.

By following these qualities, speakers can deliver impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 7 presentation skills.

Presentation skills are important for delivering a powerful and impactful presentation. The 7 key skills include knowing your audience, storytelling, using visual aids, body language, voice and tone, engaging your audience, and handling questions and feedback.

What Are Qualities Of Good Presentation?

Qualities of a good presentation include creativity, self-confidence, storytelling, active listening, body language, eye contact, and engaging the audience.

What Are The 5 Essential Skills For Making A Successful Presentation?

The 5 essential skills for making a successful presentation include knowing your audience, storytelling, using visual aids, body language, and engaging your audience.

What Are The 6 Requirements For An Effective Presentation?

The 6 requirements for an effective presentation are: 1. Clear and concise content 2. Engaging delivery 3. Well-structured organization 4. Appropriate visuals and multimedia 5. Audience interaction and engagement 6. Effective communication skills

To deliver a good presentation, several key qualities are necessary. First and foremost, a good presenter must be creative, finding unique ways to engage the audience and make the content memorable. Additionally, self-confidence plays a vital role in capturing the audience’s attention and effectively conveying the message.

Storytelling is another crucial quality, as it helps connect with listeners on an emotional level and make the information more relatable. A good presenter should continuously seek opportunities for learning, constantly improving their skills and knowledge. Moreover, active listening is essential to understand the audience’s needs and tailor the presentation accordingly.

Body language, eye contact, and using the human voice effectively are all important aspects that contribute to a successful presentation. Lastly, effective communication skills and engaging the audience through interactive activities and questions can leave a lasting impact. By incorporating these qualities into their presentations, speakers can create memorable and impactful experiences for their audience.

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Blog Beginner Guides How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]

How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]

Written by: Krystle Wong Jul 20, 2023

A top-notch presentation possesses the power to drive action. From winning stakeholders over and conveying a powerful message to securing funding — your secret weapon lies within the realm of creating an effective presentation .  

Being an excellent presenter isn’t confined to the boardroom. Whether you’re delivering a presentation at work, pursuing an academic career, involved in a non-profit organization or even a student, nailing the presentation game is a game-changer.

In this article, I’ll cover the top qualities of compelling presentations and walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to give a good presentation. Here’s a little tip to kick things off: for a headstart, check out Venngage’s collection of free presentation templates . They are fully customizable, and the best part is you don’t need professional design skills to make them shine!

These valuable presentation tips cater to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, encompassing business professionals, sales and marketing teams, educators, trainers, students, researchers, non-profit organizations, public speakers and presenters. 

No matter your field or role, these tips for presenting will equip you with the skills to deliver effective presentations that leave a lasting impression on any audience.

Click to jump ahead:

What are the 10 qualities of a good presentation?

Step-by-step guide on how to prepare an effective presentation, 9 effective techniques to deliver a memorable presentation, faqs on making a good presentation, how to create a presentation with venngage in 5 steps.

When it comes to giving an engaging presentation that leaves a lasting impression, it’s not just about the content — it’s also about how you deliver it. Wondering what makes a good presentation? Well, the best presentations I’ve seen consistently exhibit these 10 qualities:

1. Clear structure

No one likes to get lost in a maze of information. Organize your thoughts into a logical flow, complete with an introduction, main points and a solid conclusion. A structured presentation helps your audience follow along effortlessly, leaving them with a sense of satisfaction at the end.

Regardless of your presentation style , a quality presentation starts with a clear roadmap. Browse through Venngage’s template library and select a presentation template that aligns with your content and presentation goals. Here’s a good presentation example template with a logical layout that includes sections for the introduction, main points, supporting information and a conclusion: 

2. Engaging opening

Hook your audience right from the start with an attention-grabbing statement, a fascinating question or maybe even a captivating anecdote. Set the stage for a killer presentation!

The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power – check out these 15 ways to start a presentation to set the stage and captivate your audience.

3. Relevant content

Make sure your content aligns with their interests and needs. Your audience is there for a reason, and that’s to get valuable insights. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point, your audience will be genuinely excited.

4. Effective visual aids

Picture this: a slide with walls of text and tiny charts, yawn! Visual aids should be just that—aiding your presentation. Opt for clear and visually appealing slides, engaging images and informative charts that add value and help reinforce your message.

With Venngage, visualizing data takes no effort at all. You can import data from CSV or Google Sheets seamlessly and create stunning charts, graphs and icon stories effortlessly to showcase your data in a captivating and impactful way.

5. Clear and concise communication

Keep your language simple, and avoid jargon or complicated terms. Communicate your ideas clearly, so your audience can easily grasp and retain the information being conveyed. This can prevent confusion and enhance the overall effectiveness of the message. 

6. Engaging delivery

Spice up your presentation with a sprinkle of enthusiasm! Maintain eye contact, use expressive gestures and vary your tone of voice to keep your audience glued to the edge of their seats. A touch of charisma goes a long way!

7. Interaction and audience engagement

Turn your presentation into an interactive experience — encourage questions, foster discussions and maybe even throw in a fun activity. Engaged audiences are more likely to remember and embrace your message.

Transform your slides into an interactive presentation with Venngage’s dynamic features like pop-ups, clickable icons and animated elements. Engage your audience with interactive content that lets them explore and interact with your presentation for a truly immersive experience.

8. Effective storytelling

Who doesn’t love a good story? Weaving relevant anecdotes, case studies or even a personal story into your presentation can captivate your audience and create a lasting impact. Stories build connections and make your message memorable.

A great presentation background is also essential as it sets the tone, creates visual interest and reinforces your message. Enhance the overall aesthetics of your presentation with these 15 presentation background examples and captivate your audience’s attention.

9. Well-timed pacing

Pace your presentation thoughtfully with well-designed presentation slides, neither rushing through nor dragging it out. Respect your audience’s time and ensure you cover all the essential points without losing their interest.

10. Strong conclusion

Last impressions linger! Summarize your main points and leave your audience with a clear takeaway. End your presentation with a bang , a call to action or an inspiring thought that resonates long after the conclusion.

In-person presentations aside, acing a virtual presentation is of paramount importance in today’s digital world. Check out this guide to learn how you can adapt your in-person presentations into virtual presentations . 

Preparing an effective presentation starts with laying a strong foundation that goes beyond just creating slides and notes. One of the quickest and best ways to make a presentation would be with the help of a good presentation software . 

Otherwise, let me walk you to how to prepare for a presentation step by step and unlock the secrets of crafting a professional presentation that sets you apart.

1. Understand the audience and their needs

Before you dive into preparing your masterpiece, take a moment to get to know your target audience. Tailor your presentation to meet their needs and expectations , and you’ll have them hooked from the start!

2. Conduct thorough research on the topic

Time to hit the books (or the internet)! Don’t skimp on the research with your presentation materials — dive deep into the subject matter and gather valuable insights . The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in delivering your presentation.

3. Organize the content with a clear structure

No one wants to stumble through a chaotic mess of information. Outline your presentation with a clear and logical flow. Start with a captivating introduction, follow up with main points that build on each other and wrap it up with a powerful conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Delivering an effective business presentation hinges on captivating your audience, and Venngage’s professionally designed business presentation templates are tailor-made for this purpose. With thoughtfully structured layouts, these templates enhance your message’s clarity and coherence, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience for your audience members.

Don’t want to build your presentation layout from scratch? pick from these 5 foolproof presentation layout ideas that won’t go wrong. 

4. Develop visually appealing and supportive visual aids

Spice up your presentation with eye-catching visuals! Create slides that complement your message, not overshadow it. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, but that doesn’t mean you need to overload your slides with text.

Well-chosen designs create a cohesive and professional look, capturing your audience’s attention and enhancing the overall effectiveness of your message. Here’s a list of carefully curated PowerPoint presentation templates and great background graphics that will significantly influence the visual appeal and engagement of your presentation.

5. Practice, practice and practice

Practice makes perfect — rehearse your presentation and arrive early to your presentation to help overcome stage fright. Familiarity with your material will boost your presentation skills and help you handle curveballs with ease.

6. Seek feedback and make necessary adjustments

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and seek feedback from friends and colleagues. Constructive criticism can help you identify blind spots and fine-tune your presentation to perfection.

With Venngage’s real-time collaboration feature , receiving feedback and editing your presentation is a seamless process. Group members can access and work on the presentation simultaneously and edit content side by side in real-time. Changes will be reflected immediately to the entire team, promoting seamless teamwork.

7. Prepare for potential technical or logistical issues

Prepare for the unexpected by checking your equipment, internet connection and any other potential hiccups. If you’re worried that you’ll miss out on any important points, you could always have note cards prepared. Remember to remain focused and rehearse potential answers to anticipated questions.

8. Fine-tune and polish your presentation

As the big day approaches, give your presentation one last shine. Review your talking points, practice how to present a presentation and make any final tweaks. Deep breaths — you’re on the brink of delivering a successful presentation!

In competitive environments, persuasive presentations set individuals and organizations apart. To brush up on your presentation skills, read these guides on how to make a persuasive presentation and tips to presenting effectively . 

Whether you’re an experienced presenter or a novice, the right techniques will let your presentation skills soar to new heights!

From public speaking hacks to interactive elements and storytelling prowess, these 9 effective presentation techniques will empower you to leave a lasting impression on your audience and make your presentations unforgettable.

1. Confidence and positive body language

Positive body language instantly captivates your audience, making them believe in your message as much as you do. Strengthen your stage presence and own that stage like it’s your second home! Stand tall, shoulders back and exude confidence. 

2. Eye contact with the audience

Break down that invisible barrier and connect with your audience through their eyes. Maintaining eye contact when giving a presentation builds trust and shows that you’re present and engaged with them.

3. Effective use of hand gestures and movement

A little movement goes a long way! Emphasize key points with purposeful gestures and don’t be afraid to walk around the stage. Your energy will be contagious!

4. Utilize storytelling techniques

Weave the magic of storytelling into your presentation. Share relatable anecdotes, inspiring success stories or even personal experiences that tug at the heartstrings of your audience. Adjust your pitch, pace and volume to match the emotions and intensity of the story. Varying your speaking voice adds depth and enhances your stage presence.

5. Incorporate multimedia elements

Spice up your presentation with a dash of visual pizzazz! Use slides, images and video clips to add depth and clarity to your message. Just remember, less is more—don’t overwhelm them with information overload. 

Turn your presentations into an interactive party! Involve your audience with questions, polls or group activities. When they actively participate, they become invested in your presentation’s success. Bring your design to life with animated elements. Venngage allows you to apply animations to icons, images and text to create dynamic and engaging visual content.

6. Utilize humor strategically

Laughter is the best medicine—and a fantastic presentation enhancer! A well-placed joke or lighthearted moment can break the ice and create a warm atmosphere , making your audience more receptive to your message.

7. Practice active listening and respond to feedback

Be attentive to your audience’s reactions and feedback. If they have questions or concerns, address them with genuine interest and respect. Your responsiveness builds rapport and shows that you genuinely care about their experience.

8. Apply the 10-20-30 rule

Apply the 10-20-30 presentation rule and keep it short, sweet and impactful! Stick to ten slides, deliver your presentation within 20 minutes and use a 30-point font to ensure clarity and focus. Less is more, and your audience will thank you for it!

9. Implement the 5-5-5 rule

Simplicity is key. Limit each slide to five bullet points, with only five words per bullet point and allow each slide to remain visible for about five seconds. This rule keeps your presentation concise and prevents information overload.

Simple presentations are more engaging because they are easier to follow. Summarize your presentations and keep them simple with Venngage’s gallery of simple presentation templates and ensure that your message is delivered effectively across your audience.

1. How to start a presentation?

To kick off your presentation effectively, begin with an attention-grabbing statement or a powerful quote. Introduce yourself, establish credibility and clearly state the purpose and relevance of your presentation.

2. How to end a presentation?

For a strong conclusion, summarize your talking points and key takeaways. End with a compelling call to action or a thought-provoking question and remember to thank your audience and invite any final questions or interactions.

3. How to make a presentation interactive?

To make your presentation interactive, encourage questions and discussion throughout your talk. Utilize multimedia elements like videos or images and consider including polls, quizzes or group activities to actively involve your audience.

In need of inspiration for your next presentation? I’ve got your back! Pick from these 120+ presentation ideas, topics and examples to get started. 

Creating a stunning presentation with Venngage is a breeze with our user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and professionally designed templates for all your communication needs. 

Here’s how to make a presentation in just 5 simple steps with the help of Venngage:

Step 1: Sign up for Venngage for free using your email, Gmail or Facebook account or simply log in to access your account. 

Step 2: Pick a design from our selection of free presentation templates (they’re all created by our expert in-house designers).

Step 3: Make the template your own by customizing it to fit your content and branding. With Venngage’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor, you can easily modify text, change colors and adjust the layout to create a unique and eye-catching design.

Step 4: Elevate your presentation by incorporating captivating visuals. You can upload your images or choose from Venngage’s vast library of high-quality photos, icons and illustrations. 

Step 5: Upgrade to a premium or business account to export your presentation in PDF and print it for in-person presentations or share it digitally for free!

By following these five simple steps, you’ll have a professionally designed and visually engaging presentation ready in no time. With Venngage’s user-friendly platform, your presentation is sure to make a lasting impression. So, let your creativity flow and get ready to shine in your next presentation!

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Home Blog Education Presentation Skills 101: A Guide to Presentation Success

Presentation Skills 101: A Guide to Presentation Success

Getting the perfect presentation design is just a step toward a successful presentation. For the experienced user, building presentation skills is the answer to elevating the power of your message and showing expertise on any subject. Still, one can ask: is it the same set of skills, or are they dependable on the type of presentation?

In this article, we will introduce the different types of presentations accompanied by the skillset required to master them. The purpose, as always, is to retain the audience’s interest for a long-lasting and convincing message.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Presentation Skills

Persuasive presentations, instructional presentations, informative presentations, inspirational presentations, basic presentation skills, what are the main difficulties when giving a presentation, recommendations to improve your presentation skills, closing statement.

Effective communication is the answer to reaching business and academic goals. The scenarios in which we can be required to deliver a presentation are as diverse as one can imagine. Still, some core concepts apply to all presentations.

 We define presentation skills as a compendium of soft skills that directly affect your presentation performance and contribute to creating a great presentation. These are not qualities acquired by birth but skills you ought to train and master to delve into professional environments.

You may ask: is it really that evident when a presenter is not prepared? Here are some common signs people can experience during presentations:

• Evasive body language: Not making eye contact with the audience, arms closed tightly to the body, hands in pockets all the time.
• Lack of interest in the presenter’s voice: dull tone, not putting an effort to articulate the topics.
• Doubting when asked to answer a question
• Irksome mood

The list can go on about common presenter mistakes , and most certainly, it will affect the performance of any presented data if the lack of interest by the presenter is blatantly obvious.  Another element to consider is anxiety, and according to research by the National Institute of Mental Health, 73% of the population in the USA is affected by glossophobia , which is the fear of public speaking, judgment, or negative evaluation by other people.

Therefore, presentation skills training is essential for any business professional who wants to achieve effective communication . It will remove the anxiety from presentation performance and help users effectively deliver their message and connect with the audience.

Archetypes of presentations

Persuasive presentations aim to convince the audience – often in short periods – to acquire a product or service, adhere to a cause, or invest in a company. For business entrepreneurs or politicians, persuasive presentations are their tool for the trade.

Unless you aim to be perceived as an imposter, a proper persuasive presentation has the elements of facts, empathy, and logic, balanced under a well-crafted narrative. The central pillar of these presentations is to identify the single factor that gathered your audience: it could be a market need, a social cause, or a revolutionary concept for today’s society. It has to be something with enough power to gather critiques – both good and bad.

That single factor has to be backed up by facts. Research that builds your hypothesis on how to solve that problem. A deep understanding of the target audience’s needs , concerns, and social position regarding the solution your means can offer. When those elements are in place, building a pitch becomes an easy task. 

Graphics can help you introduce information in a compelling format, lowering the need for lengthy presentations. Good presentation skills for persuasive presentations go by the hand of filtering relevant data and creating the visual cues that resonate with what your audience demands.

One powerful example of a persuasive presentation is the technique known as the elevator pitch . You must introduce your idea or product convincingly to the audience in a timeframe between 30 seconds and less than 2 minutes. You have to expose:

• What do you do 
• What’s the problem to solve
• Why is your solution different from others 
• Why should the audience care about your expertise

For that very purpose, using engaging graphics with contrasting colors elevates the potential power of your message. It speaks professionalism, care for details, and out-of-the-box thinking. Knowing how to end a presentation is also critical, as your CTAs should be placed with care.

Therefore, let’s resume the requirements of persuasive presentations in terms of good presentation skills:

• Identifying problems and needs
• Elaborating “the hook” (the element that grabs the audience’s attention)
• Knowing how to “tie” your audience (introducing a piece of information related to the hook that causes an emotional impact)
• Broad knowledge of body language and hand gestures to quickly convey your message
• Being prepared to argue a defense of your point of view
• Handling rejection
• Having a proactive attitude to convert opportunities into new projects
• Using humor, surprise, or personal anecdotes as elements to sympathize with the audience
• Having confidence
• Be able to summarize facts and information in visually appealing ways

You can learn more about persuasive presentation techniques by clicking here .

In the case of instructional presentations, we ought to differentiate two distinctive types:

• Lecture Presentations : Presentations being held at universities or any other educative institution. Those presentations cover, topic by topic, and the contents of a syllabus and are created by the team of teachers in charge of the course.
• Training Presentations : These presentations take place during in-company training sessions and usually comprise a good amount of content that is resumed into easy-to-take solutions. They are aimed to coach employees over certain topics relevant to their work performance. The 70-20-10 Model is frequently used to address these training situations.

Lecture presentations appeal to the gradual introduction of complex concepts, following a structure set in the course’s syllabus. These presentations often have a similar aesthetic as a group of professors or researchers created to share their knowledge about a topic. Personal experience does tell that course presentations often rely on factual data, adequately documented, and on the theoretical side.

An example of a presentation that lies under this concept is a Syllabus Presentation, used by the teaching team to introduce the subject to new students, evaluation methods, concepts to be learned, and expectations to pass the course.

On the other hand, training presentations are slide decks designed to meet an organization’s specific needs in the formal education of their personnel. Commonly known as “continuous education,” plenty of companies invest resources in coaching their employees to achieve higher performance results. These presentations have the trademark of being concise since their idea is to introduce the concepts that shall be applied in practice sessions. 

Ideally, the training presentations are introduced with little text and easy-to-recognize visual cues. Since the idea is to summarize as much as possible, these are visually appealing for the audience. They must be dynamic enough to allow the presenter to convey the message.

Those key takeaways remind employees when they revisit their learning resources and allow them to ruminate on questions that fellow workers raise. 

To sum up this point, building presentation skills for instructional presentations requires:

• Ability to put complex concepts into simpler words
• Patience and a constant learning mindset
• Voice training to deliver lengthy speeches without being too dense
• Ability to summarize points and note the key takeaways
• Empathizing with the audience to understand their challenges in the learning process

The informative presentations take place in business situations, such as when to present project reports from different departments to the management. Another potential usage of these presentations is in SCRUM or other Agile methodologies, when a sprint is completed, to discuss the advance of the project with the Product Owner.

As they are presentations heavily dependent on data insights, it’s common to see the usage of infographics and charts to express usually dense data in simpler terms and easy to remember. 

Informative presentations don’t just fall into the business category. Ph.D. Dissertation and Thesis presentations are topics that belong to the informative presentations category as they condense countless research hours into manageable reports for the academic jury. 

Since these informational presentations can be perceived as lengthy and data-filled, it is important to learn the following professional presentation skills:

• Attention to detail
• Be able to explain complex information in simpler terms
• Creative thinking
• Powerful diction
• Working on pauses and transitions
• Pacing the presentation, so not too much information is divulged per slide

The leading inspirational platform, TEDx, comes to mind when talking about inspirational presentations. This presentation format has the peculiarity of maximizing the engagement with the audience to divulge a message, and due to that, it has specific requirements any presenter must meet.

This presentation format usually involves a speaker on a stage, either sitting or better standing, in which the presenter engages with the audience with a storytelling format about a life experience, a job done that provided a remarkable improvement for society, etc.

Empathizing with the audience is the key ingredient for these inspirational presentations. Still, creativity is what shapes the outcome of your performance as people are constantly looking for different experiences – not the same recipe rephrased with personal touches. The human factor is what matters here, way above data and research. What has your experience to offer to others? How can it motivate another human being to pursue a similar path or discover their true calling?

To achieve success in terms of communication skills presentation, these inspirational presentations have the following requirements:

• Focus on the audience (engage, consider their interests, and make them a part of your story)
• Putting ego aside
• Creative communication skills
• Storytelling skills
• Body language knowledge to apply the correct gestures to accompany your story
• Voice training
• Using powerful words

After discussing the different kinds of presentations we can come across at any stage of our lives, a group of presentation skills is standard in any type of presentation. See below what makes a good presentation and which skills you must count on to succeed as a presenter.

Punctuality

Punctuality is a crucial aspect of giving an effective presentation. Nothing says more about respect for your audience and the organization you represent than delivering the presentation on time . Arriving last minute puts pressure on the tech team behind audiovisuals, as they don’t have enough preparation to test microphones, stage lights, and projector settings, which can lead to a less powerful presentation Even when discussing presentations hosted in small rooms for a reduced audience, testing the equipment becomes essential for an effective presentation.

A solution for this is to arrive at least 30 minutes early. Ideally, one hour is a sweet spot since the AV crew has time to check the gear and requirements for your presentation. Another benefit of this, for example, in inspirational presentations, is measuring the previous presenter’s impact on the audience. This gives insights about how to resonate with the public, and their interest, and how to accommodate your presentation for maximum impact.

Body Language

Our bodies can make emotions transparent for others, even when we are unaware of such a fact. Proper training for body language skills reduces performance anxiety, giving the audience a sense of expertise about the presented topic. 

Give your presentation and the audience the respect they deserve by watching over these potential mistakes:

• Turning your back to the audience for extended periods : It’s okay to do so when introducing an important piece of information or explaining a graph, but it is considered rude to give your back to the audience constantly.
• Fidgeting : We are all nervous in the presence of strangers, even more, if we are the center of attention for that moment. Instead of playing with your hair or making weird hand gestures, take a deep breath to center yourself before the presentation and remember that everything you could do to prepare is already done. Trust your instincts and give your best.
• Intense eye contact : Have you watched a video where the presenter stared at the camera the entire time? That’s the feeling you transmit to spectators through intense eye contact. It’s a practice often used by politicians to persuade.
• Swearing : This is a no-brainer. Even when you see influencers swearing on camera or in podcasts or live presentations, it is considered an informal and lousy practice for business and academic situations. If you have a habit to break when it comes to this point, find the humor in these situations and replace your swear words with funny alternatives (if the presentation allows for it). 

Voice Tone plays a crucial role in delivering effective presentations and knowing how to give a good presentation. Your voice is a powerful tool for exposing your ideas and feelings . Your voice can articulate the message you are telling, briefing the audience if you feel excited about what you are sharing or, in contrast, if you feel the presentation is a burden you ought to complete.

Remember, passion is a primary ingredient in convincing people. Therefore, transmitting such passion with a vibrant voice may help gather potential business partners’ interest.  

But what if you feel sick prior to the presentation? If, by chance, your throat is sore minutes before setting foot on the stage, try this: when introducing yourself, mention that you are feeling a bit under the weather. This resonates with the audience to pay more attention to your efforts. In case you don’t feel comfortable about that, ask the organizers for a cup of tea, as it will settle your throat and relax your nerves.

Tech Skills

Believe it or not, people still feel challenged by technology these days. Maybe that’s the reason why presentation giants like Tony Robbins opt not to use PowerPoint presentations . The reality is that there are plenty of elements involved in a presentation that can go wrong from the tech side:

• A PDF not opening
• Saving your presentation in a too-recent PowerPoint version
• A computer not booting up
• Mac laptops and their never-ending compatibility nightmare
• Not knowing how to change between slides
• Not knowing how to use a laser pointer
• Internet not working
• Audio not working

We can come up with a pretty long list of potential tech pitfalls, and yet more than half of them fall in presenters not being knowledgeable about technology.

If computers aren’t your thing, let the organization know about this beforehand. There is always a crew member available to help presenters switch between slides or configure the presentation for streaming. This takes the pressure off your shoulders, allowing you to concentrate on the content to present. Remember, even Bill Gates can get a BSOD during a presentation .

Presentations, while valuable for conveying information and ideas, can be daunting for many individuals. Here are some common difficulties people encounter when giving presentations:

Public Speaking Anxiety

Glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, affects a significant portion of the population. This anxiety can lead to nervousness, trembling, and forgetfulness during a presentation.

Lack of Confidence

Many presenters struggle with self-doubt, fearing that they may not be knowledgeable or skilled enough to engage their audience effectively.

Content Organization

Organizing information in a coherent and engaging manner can be challenging. Presenters often grapple with how to structure their content to make it easily digestible for the audience. Artificial Intelligence can help us significantly reduce the content arrangement time when you work with tools like our AI Presentation Maker (made for presenters by experts in presentation design). 

Audience Engagement

Keeping the audience’s attention and interest throughout the presentation can be difficult. Distractions, disengaged attendees, or lack of interaction can pose challenges.

Technical Issues

Technology glitches, such as malfunctioning equipment, incompatible file formats, or poor internet connectivity, can disrupt presentations and increase stress.

Time Management

Striking the right balance between providing enough information and staying within time limits is a common challenge. Going over or under the allotted time can affect the effectiveness of the presentation.

Handling Questions and Challenges

Responding to unexpected questions, criticism, or challenges from the audience can be difficult, especially when presenters are unprepared or lack confidence in their subject matter.

Visual Aids and Technology

Creating and effectively using visual aids like slides or multimedia can be a struggle for some presenters. Technical competence is essential in this aspect.

Language and Articulation

Poor language skills or unclear articulation can hinder effective communication. Presenters may worry about stumbling over words or failing to convey their message clearly.

Maintaining appropriate and confident body language can be challenging. Avoiding nervous habits, maintaining eye contact, and using gestures effectively requires practice.

Overcoming Impersonal Delivery

In virtual presentations, maintaining a personal connection with the audience can be difficult. The absence of face-to-face interaction can make it challenging to engage and read the audience.

Cultural and Diversity Awareness

Presenting to diverse audiences requires sensitivity to cultural differences and varying levels of familiarity with the topic.

In this section, we gathered some tips on how to improve presentation skills that can certainly make an impact if applied to your presentation skills. We believe these skills can be cultivated to transform into habits for your work routine.

Tip #1: Build a narrative

One memorable way to guarantee presentation success is by writing a story of all the points you desire to cover. This statement is based on the logic behind storytelling and its power to connect with people .

Don’t waste time memorizing slides or reading your presentation to the audience. It feels unnatural, and any question that diverts from the topic in discussion certainly puts you in jeopardy or, worse, exposes you as a fraud in the eyes of the audience. And before you ask, it is really evident when a presenter has a memorized speech. 

Build and rehearse the presentation as if telling a story to a group of interested people. Lower the language barrier by avoiding complex terms that maybe even you aren’t fully aware of their meaning. Consider the ramifications of that story, what it could lead to, and which are the opportunities to explore. Then, visualize yourself giving the presentation in a natural way.

Applying this technique makes the presentation feel like second nature to you. It broadens the spectrum in which you can show expertise over a topic or even build the basis for new interesting points of view about the project.

Tip #2: Don’t talk for more than 3 minutes per slide

It is a common practice of presenters to bombard the audience with facts and information whilst retaining the same slide on the screen. Why can this happen? It could be because the presenter condensed the talk into very few slides and preferred to talk. The reality is that your spectators won’t retain the information you are giving unless you give visual cues to help that process. 

Opt to prepare more slides and pace your speech to match the topics shown on each slide. Don’t spend more than 3 minutes per slide unless you have to introduce a complex piece of data. Use visual cues to direct the spectators about what you talk about, and summarize the principal concepts discussed at the end of each section.

Tip #3: Practice meditation daily

Anxiety is the number one enemy of professional presenters. It slowly builds without you being aware of your doubts and can hinder your performance in multiple ways: making you feel paralyzed, fidgeting, making you forget language skills or concepts, affecting your health, etc.

Meditation is an ancient practice taken from Buddhist teachings that train your mind to be here in the present. We often see the concepts of meditation and mindfulness as synonyms, whereas you should be aware that meditation is a practice that sets the blocks to reach a state of mindfulness. For presenters, being in the here and now is essential to retain focus, but meditation techniques also teach us to control our breathing and be in touch with our body signals when stress builds up. 

The customary practice of meditation has an impact on imagination and creativity but also helps to build patience – a skill much needed for connecting with your audience in instructional presentations.

Having the proper set of presentation skills can be quite subjective. It goes beyond presentation tips and deepens into how flexible we can be in our ability to communicate ideas.

Different presentations and different audiences shape the outcome of our efforts. Therefore, having a basic understanding of how to connect, raise awareness, and empathize with people can be key ingredients for your career as a presenter. A word of advice: success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication and patience to build communication skills . Don’t condition your work to believe you will be ready “someday”; it’s best to practice and experience failure as part of the learning process.

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Business Presentations, Presentation Approaches, Presentation Skills Filed under Education

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6 presentation skills and how to improve them

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What are presentation skills?

The importance of presentation skills, 6 presentation skills examples, how to improve presentation skills.

Tips for dealing with presentation anxiety

Learn how to captivate an audience with ease

Capturing an audience’s attention takes practice. 

Over time, great presenters learn how to organize their speeches and captivate an audience from start to finish. They spark curiosity, know how to read a room , and understand what their audience needs to walk away feeling like they learned something valuable.

Regardless of your profession, you most likely use presentation skills on a monthly or even weekly basis. Maybe you lead brainstorming sessions or host client calls. 

Developing effective presentation skills makes it easier to contribute ideas with confidence and show others you’re someone to trust. Although speaking in front of a crowd sometimes brings nerves and anxiety , it also sparks new opportunities.

Presentation skills are the qualities and abilities you need to communicate ideas effectively and deliver a compelling speech. They influence how you structure a presentation and how an audience receives it. Understanding body language , creating impactful visual aids, and projecting your voice all fall under this umbrella.

A great presentation depends on more than what you say. It’s about how you say it. Storytelling , stage presence, and voice projection all shape how well you express your ideas and connect with the audience. These skills do take practice, but they’re worth developing — especially if public speaking makes you nervous. 

Engaging a crowd isn’t easy. You may feel anxious to step in front of an audience and have all eyes and ears on you.

But feeling that anxiety doesn’t mean your ideas aren’t worth sharing. Whether you’re giving an inspiring speech or delivering a monthly recap at work, your audience is there to listen to you. Harness that nervous energy and turn it into progress.

Strong presentation skills make it easier to convey your thoughts to audiences of all sizes. They can help you tell a compelling story, convince people of a pitch , or teach a group something entirely new to them. And when it comes to the workplace, the strength of your presentation skills could play a part in getting a promotion or contributing to a new initiative.

To fully understand the impact these skills have on creating a successful presentation, it’s helpful to look at each one individually. Here are six valuable skills you can develop:

1. Active listening

Active listening is an excellent communication skill for any professional to hone. When you have strong active listening skills, you can listen to others effectively and observe their nonverbal cues . This helps you assess whether or not your audience members are engaged in and understand what you’re sharing. 

Great public speakers use active listening to assess the audience’s reactions and adjust their speech if they find it lacks impact. Signs like slouching, negative facial expressions, and roaming eye contact are all signs to watch out for when giving a presentation.

2. Body language

If you’re researching presentation skills, chances are you’ve already watched a few notable speeches like TED Talks or industry seminars. And one thing you probably noticed is that speakers can capture attention with their body language. 

A mixture of eye contact, hand gestures , and purposeful pacing makes a presentation more interesting and engaging. If you stand in one spot and don’t move your body, the audience might zone out.

3. Stage presence

A great stage presence looks different for everyone. A comedian might aim for more movement and excitement, and a conference speaker might focus their energy on the content of their speech. Although neither is better than the other, both understand their strengths and their audience’s needs. 

Developing a stage presence involves finding your own unique communication style . Lean into your strengths, whether that’s adding an injection of humor or asking questions to make it interactive . To give a great presentation, you might even incorporate relevant props or presentation slides.

4. Storytelling

According to Forbes, audiences typically pay attention for about 10 minutes before tuning out . But you can lengthen their attention span by offering a presentation that interests them for longer. Include a narrative they’ll want to listen to, and tell a story as you go along. 

Shaping your content to follow a clear narrative can spark your audience’s curiosity and entice them to pay careful attention. You can use anecdotes from your personal or professional life that take your audience along through relevant moments. If you’re pitching a product, you can start with a problem and lead your audience through the stages of how your product provides a solution.

5. Voice projection

Although this skill may be obvious, you need your audience to hear what you’re saying. This can be challenging if you’re naturally soft-spoken and struggle to project your voice.

Remember to straighten your posture and take deep breaths before speaking, which will help you speak louder and fill the room. If you’re talking into a microphone or participating in a virtual meeting, you can use your regular conversational voice, but you still want to sound confident and self-assured with a strong tone.

If you’re unsure whether everyone can hear you, you can always ask the audience at the beginning of your speech and wait for confirmation. That way, they won’t have to potentially interrupt you later.

Ensuring everyone can hear you also includes your speed and annunciation. It’s easy to speak quickly when nervous, but try to slow down and pronounce every word. Mumbling can make your presentation difficult to understand and pay attention to.

6. Verbal communication 

Although verbal communication involves your projection and tone, it also covers the language and pacing you use to get your point across. This includes where you choose to place pauses in your speech or the tone you use to emphasize important ideas.

If you’re giving a presentation on collaboration in the workplace , you might start your speech by saying, “There’s something every workplace needs to succeed: teamwork.” By placing emphasis on the word “ teamwork ,” you give your audience a hint on what ideas will follow.

To further connect with your audience through diction, pay careful attention to who you’re speaking to. The way you talk to your colleagues might be different from how you speak to a group of superiors, even if you’re discussing the same subject. You might use more humor and a conversational tone for the former and more serious, formal diction for the latter.

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses when it comes to presenting. Maybe you’re confident in your use of body language, but your voice projection needs work. Maybe you’re a great storyteller in small group settings, but need to work on your stage presence in front of larger crowds. 

The first step to improving presentation skills is pinpointing your gaps and determining which qualities to build upon first. Here are four tips for enhancing your presentation skills:

1. Build self-confidence

Confident people know how to speak with authority and share their ideas. Although feeling good about your presentation skills is easier said than done, building confidence is key to helping your audience believe in what you’re saying. Try practicing positive self-talk and continuously researching your topic's ins and outs.

If you don’t feel confident on the inside, fake it until you make it. Stand up straight, project your voice, and try your best to appear engaged and excited. Chances are, the audience doesn’t know you’re unsure of your skills — and they don’t need to.

Another tip is to lean into your slideshow, if you’re using one. Create something colorful and interesting so the audience’s eyes fall there instead of on you. And when you feel proud of your slideshow, you’ll be more eager to share it with others, bringing more energy to your presentation.

2. Watch other presentations

Developing the soft skills necessary for a good presentation can be challenging without seeing them in action. Watch as many as possible to become more familiar with public speaking skills and what makes a great presentation. You could attend events with keynote speakers or view past speeches on similar topics online.

Take a close look at how those presenters use verbal communication and body language to engage their audiences. Grab a notebook and jot down what you enjoyed and your main takeaways. Try to recall the techniques they used to emphasize their main points, whether they used pauses effectively, had interesting visual aids, or told a fascinating story.

3. Get in front of a crowd

You don’t need a large auditorium to practice public speaking. There are dozens of other ways to feel confident and develop good presentation skills.

If you’re a natural comedian, consider joining a small stand-up comedy club. If you’re an avid writer, participate in a public poetry reading. Even music and acting can help you feel more comfortable in front of a crowd.

If you’d rather keep it professional, you can still work on your presentation skills in the office. Challenge yourself to participate at least once in every team meeting, or plan and present a project to become more comfortable vocalizing your ideas. You could also speak to your manager about opportunities that flex your public speaking abilities.

4. Overcome fear

Many people experience feelings of fear before presenting in front of an audience, whether those feelings appear as a few butterflies or more severe anxiety. Try grounding yourself to shift your focus to the present moment. If you’re stuck dwelling on previous experiences that didn’t go well, use those mistakes as learning experiences and focus on what you can improve to do better in the future.

Tips for dealing with presentation anxiety 

It’s normal to feel nervous when sharing your ideas. In fact, according to a report from the Journal of Graduate Medical Education, public speaking anxiety is prevalent in 15–30% of the general population .

Even though having a fear of public speaking is common, it doesn’t make it easier. You might feel overwhelmed, become stiff, and forget what you were going to say. But although the moment might scare you, there are ways to overcome the fear and put mind over matter.

Use these tactics to reduce your stress when you have to make a presentation:

1. Practice breathing techniques

If you experience anxiety often, you’re probably familiar with breathing techniques for stress relief . Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can help you stop worrying and regulate anxious feelings. 

Before a big presentation, take a moment alone to practice breathing techniques, ground yourself, and reduce tension. It’s also a good idea to take breaths throughout the presentation to speak slower and calm yourself down .

2. Get organized

The more organized you are, the more prepared you’ll feel. Carefully outline all of the critical information you want to use in your presentation, including your main talking points and visual aids, so you don’t forget anything. Use bullet points and visuals on each slide to remind you of what you want to talk about, and create handheld notes to help you stay on track.

3. Embrace moments of silence

It’s okay to lose your train of thought. It happens to even the most experienced public speakers once in a while. If your mind goes blank, don’t panic. Take a moment to breathe, gather your thoughts, and refer to your notes to see where you left off. You can drink some water or make a quick joke to ease the silence or regain your footing. And it’s okay to say, “Give me a moment while I find my notes.” Chances are, people understand the position you’re in.

4. Practice makes progress

Before presenting, rehearse in front of friends and family members you trust. This gives you the chance to work out any weak spots in your speech and become comfortable communicating out loud. If you want to go the extra mile, ask your makeshift audience to ask a surprise question. This tests your on-the-spot thinking and will prove that you can keep cool when things come up.

Whether you’re new to public speaking or are a seasoned presenter, you’re bound to make a few slip-ups. It happens to everyone. The most important thing is that you try your best, brush things off, and work on improving your skills to do better in your next presentation.

Although your job may require a different level of public speaking than your favorite TED Talk , developing presentation skills is handy in any profession. You can use presentation skills in a wide range of tasks in the workplace, whether you’re sharing your ideas with colleagues, expressing concerns to higher-ups, or pitching strategies to potential clients.

Remember to use active listening to read the room and engage your audience with an interesting narrative. Don’t forget to step outside your comfort zone once in a while and put your skills to practice in front of a crowd. After facing your fears, you’ll feel confident enough to put presentation skills on your resume.

If you’re trying to build your skills and become a better employee overall, try a communications coach with BetterUp. 

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

8 tips to improve your public speaking skills

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