1. Tailor to Your Audience
As you begin preparing your presentation, think about your audience and what is important to them. Research their background, interests, and challenges and then create context and provide relevant information that they will find relatable. Your audience should be the driving force behind the content you present and the way you present it.Â
2. Connect with Your Audience
Create an emotional connection with your audience by telling stories, including personal narratives, and even infusing a little humor. Try to evoke emotion by creating a relatable experience for each person. For example, you may tell a story about your relationship with a close friend or family member that mentored you. This is something most people would be able to relate to. It is also a great way to help audiences remember your message.
3. Identify Your Goals
What is the main purpose of your presentation? Are you trying to win business? Are you simply sharing important information and your expertise? Take some time to identify your main goals and keep those in mind as you develop your presentation.Â
4. Lead with Key Information
Studies of human memory suggest that information taken in at the start of a presentation is likely remembered the most, and this dwindles as minutes go on. Therefore, get to the point right away and lead with the most important information first. Doing so will increase the chances that your audience will remember the information you gave at the start.
5. Incorporate Visuals
Videos, graphics, photos, charts, and props can all be great ways to illustrate your points and make the information more memorable. People often remember what they see better than what they hear. That said, choose your visuals wisely. A lengthy PowerPoint could do the opposite, while a product demonstration could be exactly what your audience needed to remember your message.
6. Keep it Simple
The information you present needs to be straightforward, understandable, and repeatable. Don’t over complicate your presentation with fancy jargon, loads of facts, or too many numbers. Too much data becomes confusing. Rather, make strong, clear statements and reinforce those points with evidence throughout your presentation.Â