How to deliver a killer presentation in 9 easy steps

In today's competitive business landscape, the ability to present effectively is a skill that holds immense value. It opens doors to new business prospects, career advancements, and positions you as a charismatic leader.

Public speaking ability and strong communication skills are qualities that organisations seek in CEOs due to their capacity to sway opinions, secure projects, and articulate vision.

In this article, we'll delve into nine straightforward yet powerful steps to transform you into a master presenter, curated by none other than BTW Media Founder Jessica Ridley, a seasoned professional in live TV and radio news.

Step 1: Think about who you’re talking to
Crafting an impactful presentation begins with understanding your audience. Ask yourself: Who are they? What are their interests and needs? How can I appeal to them and show relevance to their situation? Picture one person and give them a persona. For me on Sunrise breakfast news, it was a 55 year old man called John, who was waking up, turning the kettle on and switching on the TV to get the morning’s headlines.

Picturing the person you are talking to will help you tailor your content to resonate with them, using language and examples they can relate to. By knowing your audience, you'll be able to create a presentation that captures their attention from the get-go.

Step 2: Structure with purpose
An effective presentation has a clear and logical structure. Your introduction serves as a lasting impression and an opportunity to captivate your audience. A strong introduction should outline key points and hook your listeners. Divide your content into well-defined sections with headings for seamless comprehension. Conclude with a memorable ending that reinforces your main messages and prompts action,

Step 3: Less really is more
Humans only have the ability to take in 3-4 chunks of information at a time. So instead of trying to cram 20 points into a presentation and overwhelming your audience, focus on a select few and use the time to emphasise these points from start to finish. Start by jotting down everything you want to cover, then distil it to the 3-4 most crucial points. This approach will ensure your presentation is clear and concise.

Step 4: Unlock the power of stories
Everything is far more impactful when told from lived experience. Which is why real life stories are a powerful tool in any speaker’s collateral. These narratives not only reinforce a point, but also stick in the listener’s mind. We connect with emotions, so don't be afraid to inject humour or vulnerability into your presentation to foster connection.

Step 5: Use visual aids
A picture really does paint a thousand words. So use images and video through your slide deck where relevant, especially when sharing stories or anecdotes. But avoid clutter and aim for simplicity. Visuals should enhance your presentation, not distract the audience from you!

Step 6: Practice, practice, practice
The key to a flawless presentation is practice. Rehearse in front of the mirror at home. You could even record yourself and watch it back, or share it with a colleague or friend for their feedback. Focusing on your delivery, pace and body language will be a better use of your time in the lead up than trying to memorise your lines word for word. Vocalising key points aids memory retention and confident delivery.

Step 7: Make it interactive
An engaging presentation is a memorable one. Encourage audience participation through questions, polls, or interactive exercises. This can help to break down the virtual fourth wall when presenting online. It also helps you gain feedback to determine if everyone is following along.

Step 8: Master your non-verbals
Words make up just 7% of our communication. The rest hinges on tone, inflection and body language. Eye contact is especially important when you want to make a strong point. If you’re presenting online, get two sticky notes and draw some arrows on them, pop them on either side of that tiny camera lens to remind yourself where your audience is. When you look through the lens, rather than at the gallery of people, you are connecting with them. Try standing during a presentation - even a virtual one. Prop your laptop up and give it a go next time. You will notice a big shift in your energy and confidence.

Step 9: Set yourself up for success beforehand
Nerves can affect even seasoned presenters, but preparation mitigates their impact. It’s important to identify personal triggers and preempt them - keep water nearby for a dry throat, practice relaxation techniques like box breathing, go for a walk around the block to shake off the day, and eliminate distractions like your phone and unnecessary computer tabs. Rather than dwelling on what could go wrong, focus on the value you offer your audience - and keep that one person in mind as you speak.