Nucleus - Marketing and Design Newsletter
PowerPoint
It’s inescapable in the business world. And there are all sorts of rules – and debate on the rules – for creating PowerPoint presentations, but it’s not about the point size or the transitions. Here are four tips for more successful PowerPoint presentations.
1. Be more like a TV commercial.
Look at the commercials you like, or even the ones you can’t stand since they are – in their own way – memorable. Do they start off with a quiet introduction? Or do they start off with an in your face, attention-grabbing "Sham-Wow!" One of the fastest ways to lose your audience is to begin with "Welcome, yadda, yadda, yadda." Instead, ask a thought-provoking question or introduce the topic in a way that captures your audience’s imagination.
2. Tell a story with your headlines.
As with other forms of media, a compelling story will engage your audience. And in the world of PowerPoint, that story needs to take place in the slide headlines. Make sure your headlines answer "who, what, where, when, and how" over the course of the presentation. The rest of the content builds on this story.
3. Animate your audience, not your slides.
No amount of spinning type will prevent an audience from zoning out on a boring presentation. Engage your audience by talking with them, asking questions, and keeping the presentation focused on their needs – not your credentials.
4. Show your enthusiasm.
In the end, it’s about the presentation. PowerPoint slides are just tools to help you share your message. Your slides can feature every faux pas in the book – vibrating color combinations, tiny type, overly complex charts – but if you are passionate about your message and offer valuable insights to your audience, your presentation will be a success.